Dojo
Our Philosophy
At Yawara Dojo, we are dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where individuals can develop their martial arts skills while cultivating discipline and respect. Our traditional techniques and experienced instructors create a space for personal growth and achievement. We take pride in offering a holistic approach to martial arts training, focusing not only on physical prowess but also on mental fortitude and emotional well-being.
Meet Our Instructors
Sensei CJ
Head Instructor
Sensei CJ (Charlize Jasmine), originally from Honolulu, HI, trained at Hawaii Tenri Judo Club since the age of 5. She also cross trained in wrestling since the age of 7, competed in PAL competitions, 2x highschool league champion, and 2x bronze State Medalist in wrestling. Sensei CJ has an extensive career in judo, holding 20+ National and International Champion titles, 3x Hawaii State Champion, Belgium Grand Prix Gold and Bronze medalist, named 2017 Best Female Technique awardee, National Team Member, 2017 Cadet World Team Member, SJSU Varsity Judo team Member and 2022 NCJA Collegiate National Champion and all American.
Off the mat, you can find Sensei CJ practicing the saxophone, camping, or finding any excuse to be in the water or on top of a mountain.
Sensei PK
Head Instructor
Sensei PK (Paul) born and raised in San Jose, CA has been doing judo since a young age and started out at San Jose Budhist Judo club and later moved to Silicon valley Judo Club where he received his Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt). Sensei PK has competed locally and has been teaching judo for the past 10 years helping other local dojos and school programs. His favorite techniques are foot sweeps.
When not on the mat, Sensei PK is either practicing his calligraphy, photography, or camping.
Sensei Lindsay
Assistant Instructor
Sensei Lindsay, born in San Jose, CA started martial arts training at age 7 in Aikido and Japanese Jujitsu, transitioning to Kodokan Judo at age 14 at San Jose Judo Academy (SJJA). She continued her judo training as a student at San Jose State University where she was a member of the San Jose State University Judo Team, where she received her Shodan (1st degree black belt), and competed in both local, state, and collegiate level tournaments.
When not training, Sensei Lindsay enjoys trail running with her dog and volunteerism in her local community (animal shelter, community clean-ups, food banks)