Kajukenbo Okayama

Kajukenbo Okayama is a mixed martial arts program that includes boxing, kickboxing, karate, jiu-jutsu, judo, kenpo, kung fu, cardio and muscle training, and self-defense skills. Adult classes begin with basic boxing skills and then add kickboxing, karate, jiu-jutsu, judo, kenpo, and kung fu techniques as students progress. Kids classes teach the same techniques at a slower pace and also focus on listening, reaction, learning ability, memory, and enjoying exercise.

• Ages: 6–18 years old

Kajukenbo Okayama formed in 2016 in Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture, Japan. Kajukenbo is a mixed martial art that was established in Hawaii in 1947, and its name is an acronym for arts in its original formation: Ka for karate, Ju for jiu-jutsu and judo, Ken for kenpo, and Bo for Western boxing and Chinese “boxing” (kung fu). The original art’s main focus was self-defense, with techniques included or removed based on whether they worked in practice, and the founders field tested techniques while serving in the military and working as military police, bouncers, or security. Kajukenbo practitioners also integrate other styles into their training, and it is common to see elements of Muay Thai, Brazilian jiu-jutsu, Krav Maga, or Escrima. Classes are taught by 5th degree black belt John Hojlo, who is a student of Grand Master Ron Esteller of San Leandro, California, USA. The program uses the Kajukenbo motto, “Through this fist art, one gains long life and happiness.” Families can contact the program by email at [email protected], by phone at 050-7117-7611, through the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/kaju.okayama/, or on LINE using ID @821ofhhx or by looking up Kajukenbo 岡山.

Last updated May 10, 2026.