Best Judo Schools in the World

Judo is a martial art developed by Jigoro Kano and has been around for over a century and still continues to grow in popularity. Since judo is such a popular martial art, you can find judo schools all over the world, but only a few of them can call themselves the best of the best.

Let’s jump in and see which are the best judo schools in the world.

Of course that we are going to start with the legendary Kodokan Judo Institute. Located in Tokyo, Japan, the Kodokan Judo Academy is the oldest and largest judo school in the world and is one of the most prestigious ones also. The school was established in 1882 and is internationally known as the birthplace of modern judo.

It was founded by the pioneer of judo, Jigoro Kano, and you can go there even as a visitor to see how judokas train. If you however wish to train there, keep in mind that only a white judo gi is allowed, as that is a traditional uniform.

Another top-ranked school located in the heart of judo, Japan, is the Tokai University Athletic Association Judo Club. It was established in 1972 and it is part of the university. It is famous for having produced several top Japanese judo competitors, and they also had visits from sambo champions that taught the students sambo techniques.

Located in London, England, the Bodokwai was founded by a Japanese Master of Judo, Gunji Koizumi in 1918. It stands as the oldest school of Japanese martial arts in Europe, and some very famous judokas and world champions have practiced here.

In its early history, the Budokwai almost merged with the Kodokan Judo Institute. Other than judo, in Budokwai you can learn Karate, BJJ, Hontai Yoshin Ryu Ju-Jutsu, Yoga, and Pilates.