The Academy is a non-profit side of Ultimate Judo an academic study of Judo, its history, and its culture. Students embark on a 12-18 month course studying Kata and technical elements of Judo in more detail to help them better understand the sport and art of Judo. This culminates in a trip to Japan, to witness and experience first-hand.
A Journey of Judo, Friendship, and Cultural Discovery
Ultimate Judo's most recent trip to Japan in 2023 was nothing short of extraordinary. Originally planned for 2022, the tour was postponed due to Japan's COVID restrictions and border closures. After much anticipation and patience, our team finally embarked on this long-awaited adventure in April 2023, navigating the challenges posed by ongoing restrictions. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect, as we were fortunate enough to experience the breathtaking beauty of Japan's Sakura (cherry blossom) season, which added a magical touch to the entire trip.
This year's tour was a blend of familiar traditions and exciting new experiences, making it one of the most memorable journeys Ultimate Judo has ever undertaken.
As with previous trips, one of the central highlights was training at the world-renowned Kodokan Judo Institute in Tokyo. Stepping onto the mats at the Kodokan is always an honor, and this time was no different. Our students, filled with excitement and respect for the dojo's history, absorbed every moment, refining their techniques under the watchful eyes of skilled instructors. The Kodokan, often called the spiritual home of judo, gave our students not only physical training but also a deeper understanding of the philosophy and values that underpin the martial art.
In addition to training, we visited some of Tokyo’s famous landmarks, including its shrines, museums, and bustling streets. These excursions gave our group a chance to immerse themselves in Japan’s vibrant culture, experiencing both its ancient traditions and modern-day marvels.
One of the most special aspects of this tour was finally meeting Michihiro Omigawa, a respected judoka and mixed martial artist, in person. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we connected with Omigawa-san online, sharing virtual judo training sessions that helped bridge the gap between our two countries when travel was impossible. Over the years, our bond grew, and it was truly heartwarming to finally meet face-to-face during this tour.
Omigawa-san welcomed us warmly, and our friendship, forged online during difficult times, blossomed further as we trained together in person. This connection reminded us of how judo transcends boundaries, bringing people together regardless of distance or circumstance. It was an honor to learn from him in person, and his passion for the sport inspired both our students and coaches alike.
The highlight of the trip, however, was our visit to Takahama, a small city 2.5 hours south of Tokyo, accessible via the iconic Shinkansen bullet train. We spent an unforgettable weekend with a local judo club, strengthening the bonds between our two communities. The hospitality of our hosts was unmatched, and they went above and beyond to make the experience enriching for everyone involved.
We stayed in a traditional hostel alongside the host team, creating an environment of camaraderie and mutual respect. The weekend was filled with exciting activities—intensive judo training sessions, cultural exchanges, and unforgettable moments of fun and friendship. One of the highlights was a traditional tea ceremony, where our students learned about the intricacies of Japanese culture and etiquette.
In an effort to encourage communication and connection despite the language barrier, we organized a cultural exchange involving traditional sweets from both Japan and Scotland. This simple but effective gesture helped break the ice, as the students shared treats and stories with one another, laughing and building friendships. It was a heartwarming experience to witness our students interacting, laughing, and looking after one another, regardless of the language they spoke.
Another standout moment was a performance of the famous Tanko drums, a powerful and rhythmic form of traditional Japanese drumming. After the stunning demonstration, our group was given the chance to try the drums themselves, an experience that left everyone exhilarated.
Throughout the trip, our students impressed us with their curiosity, respect, and willingness to embrace new experiences. They asked insightful questions during training sessions and cultural events, eager to learn more about both judo and Japan itself. Whether trying unfamiliar foods, experiencing new customs, or practicing their judo skills, we could see each student adopting elements of Japanese culture, growing not only as judoka but also as individuals.
The coaches were incredibly proud of the students' attitudes, especially their openness to learning and trying new things. It was evident that this trip helped them broaden their horizons, deepening their appreciation for judo and the culture that surrounds it.
Ultimate Judo's 2023 tour of Japan was much more than a training trip—it was a journey of friendship, cultural exchange, and personal growth. Meeting Michihiro Omigawa in person after years of online training was a testament to the enduring spirit of judo and the connections it creates. Our weekend in Takahama with the local judo club was a perfect example of how sport can unite people from different backgrounds, and the memories of that weekend will stay with us for years to come.
As we reflect on this incredible experience, we’re reminded of the values that judo teaches—respect, perseverance, and community. This tour strengthened our team not only as judoka but as global citizens, and we look forward to many more adventures in the future.
We return home with new skills, lifelong memories, and most importantly, lasting friendships with our Japanese counterparts.
"I loved spending time with the school in Takahama, this trip has changed me in so many ways."
Student
Ultimate Judo's 2019 Tour of Japan
In the Footsteps of Legends: Kodokan, Rugby, and Typhoon Hagibis
In the autumn of 2019, Ultimate Judo embarked on an unforgettable journey to Japan, a trip that perfectly aligned with two major events: the Rugby World Cup and the arrival of the formidable Typhoon Hagibis. This remarkable tour provided not only an opportunity to train in the birthplace of judo but also a chance to experience the energy of Japan's sporting culture and witness the resilience of the country during one of the most intense natural disasters in recent memory.
Our adventure began in Tokyo, where the city was buzzing with excitement for the Rugby World Cup. International fans flooded the streets, and there was a palpable sense of camaraderie and celebration. This was an incredible backdrop for the beginning of our tour, which had a singular focus: judo.
We had the rare privilege of training at the Kodokan, the spiritual home of judo. Founded by Jigoro Kano in 1882, the Kodokan is the most famous judo dojo in the world, and training here was both an honor and a challenge. The experience gave us a deeper appreciation of the sport’s origins and a chance to refine our techniques under the guidance of world-class instructors.
One of the highlights of the trip was an exclusive training session with Toshihiko Koga, a judo legend and Olympic champion. Known for his iconic "ippon seoi nage" technique, Koga’s presence and instruction left a lasting impact on everyone in attendance. His passion for the sport and his attention to the finer details of technique were inspiring, reminding us all why judo is not just a sport but a lifelong pursuit of self-improvement and discipline.
Our tour took a dramatic turn when Typhoon Hagibis, one of the most powerful storms to hit Japan in decades, made landfall. The storm disrupted travel plans and forced us to alter parts of our itinerary, but the experience was humbling. We witnessed firsthand the Japanese people's resilience in the face of adversity, as the city responded swiftly to the disaster, with incredible coordination and calmness.
Though many events, including some Rugby World Cup matches, were postponed or canceled, the spirit of both the athletes and the fans remained undiminished. We remained safe throughout the storm, and it was a testament to the strength and preparedness of the country.
In between training sessions and the aftermath of the typhoon, we also took the time to explore the surrounding areas of Tokyo. From visiting historic temples and gardens to experiencing the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines Japan, every moment outside the dojo was as enriching as our time on the mats.
The local cuisine, bustling markets, and the iconic sights of Mount Fuji in the distance all added to the allure of this incredible tour. Even with the challenges posed by the weather, Japan’s natural beauty and cultural depth shone through.
Ultimate Judo’s 2019 tour of Japan was an extraordinary experience that combined high-level judo training, cultural immersion, and a taste of Japan’s national pride through the Rugby World Cup. Training at the Kodokan and with Toshihiko Koga were unforgettable milestones in our judo journey. Despite the drama of Typhoon Hagibis, the trip highlighted the resilience and spirit of Japan and left us with memories that will last a lifetime.
For all of us at Ultimate Judo, this trip wasn't just about refining our judo skills; it was about connecting with the very roots of the martial art and experiencing Japan in its full spectrum—from the exhilaration of international sport to the challenges posed by nature.
This tour will be remembered not only for its judo achievements but also for the way it brought our group closer together through shared adversity and adventure. We return home not only as better judoka but also with a deeper understanding and respect for the people and culture of Japan.
"What an experience!! it's always been a dream to visit to Japan but to do it with my Judo team made it even more special. We saw things normal tourists wouldn't see"
Student
A Journey of Inspiration, Friendship, and Judo Spirit
In 2017, Ultimate Judo embarked on its second unforgettable tour of Japan, continuing our mission of immersing our students in the birthplace of judo. Staying at the familiar Sakura Hotel in Hatagaya, we revisited some of Tokyo’s iconic sights and deepened our connections to the sport we love. However, this trip held even more significance, as it was filled with unforgettable encounters, inspiring moments, and the forging of new friendships through judo.
Our trip began with a return to the bustling streets of Tokyo. The group, filled with anticipation, enjoyed the usual tourist activities, from visiting shrines and temples to exploring the unique neighborhoods that define the city’s mix of tradition and modernity. Whether it was experiencing the serene beauty of Meiji Shrine or the electric atmosphere of Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo never ceased to amaze.
But beyond the tourist attractions, this trip was about judo—our students were prepared to train hard, push their limits, and embrace the values of the sport. And it was during this tour that they had some of their most transformative experiences yet.
One of the major highlights of this year’s tour was a visit to Kamakura, a historic city renowned for its Great Buddha statue and beautiful temples. The peaceful atmosphere of Kamakura, combined with its rich history, provided a stark contrast to the fast pace of Tokyo. It gave our group time to reflect and connect with the spiritual aspects of Japanese culture, as well as the philosophical roots of judo.
The experience of visiting Kamakura left a deep impression on both students and coaches, giving everyone a moment to pause and appreciate the cultural heritage that has shaped the sport we all cherish.
Without a doubt, the pinnacle of the trip came when the group had the incredible honor of meeting judo legend Toshihiko Koga. Koga, a three-time Olympian and gold medalist, is a hero to many judoka worldwide, but for Coach Gordon, this meeting was particularly special. Koga’s dedication to judo and his mastery of the “ippon seoi nage” technique had long been a source of inspiration for Gordon.
To mark this extraordinary moment, Koga presented Gordon with a signed tatami mat, a treasured gift that now proudly resides in the dojo. Meeting Koga in person was not just a dream come true for Gordon but also a powerful reminder to all of us about the heights that can be reached through hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in judo.
The spirit of judo is about much more than physical training; it’s about building relationships and fostering community. During this tour, we had the privilege of meeting new friends through the Judo3.0 community, which helped bridge the gap between judoka from around the world.
One of the standout individuals we met was Nagasaki Tetsuma, a fellow judoka whose passion and commitment to the sport mirrored our own. These new friendships, forged through a shared love of judo, added an extra layer of connection to our trip, as students and coaches alike embraced the global judo family. The bonds created during this trip went beyond the dojo, as the children bonded over shared experiences, laughing, training, and growing together.
In addition to the cultural experiences and friendships made, our trip also included some fantastic training sessions. One of the most exciting opportunities was a visit to the US Embassy Judo Club, led by judo historian Lance Gatling. This unique experience allowed our students to train in an international environment, learning from both Gatling’s wealth of knowledge and the diverse group of judoka at the club.
Gatling also arranged for us to visit Russo High School, where we had the chance to train with young Japanese judoka. This was an eye-opening experience for our students, as they were able to see firsthand the level of dedication and discipline demonstrated by their Japanese counterparts. It was a tough but rewarding session, where our students showed true warrior spirit and demonstrated all the judo values—courage, respect, and perseverance—making all the coaches incredibly proud.
Throughout the trip, our students impressed us with their resilience, hard work, and camaraderie. They pushed themselves during every training session, showing not only physical strength but also mental fortitude. Despite the language barrier, they bonded with local judoka, demonstrating the universal language of judo and the values that transcend words—respect, friendship, and mutual support.
The way the children came together, worked hard, and looked after one another was a testament to the strength of our judo community. The coaches were proud to see them embrace the spirit of judo, from trying new experiences to asking thoughtful questions about the sport and culture. They embodied the values of judo in every aspect of the trip, whether it was on the tatami or exploring the streets of Tokyo.
Ultimate Judo's 2017 tour of Japan was a remarkable journey, full of growth, inspiration, and unforgettable moments. From meeting judo legend Toshihiko Koga to training with new friends at the US Embassy and Russo High School, the trip was a powerful reminder of the impact that judo has on our lives, both inside and outside the dojo.
The friendships made, the lessons learned, and the warrior spirit displayed by the students will stay with us for years to come. As we look back on this incredible tour, we are reminded that judo is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life that connects people across the globe, instilling values that last a lifetime.
We returned home not only as better judoka but as stronger individuals, united by the experiences we shared and the lessons we learned in the birthplace of judo.
"I can't believe I trained with Koga sensei, what a legend. I will never forget this trip."
A Journey of Discovery with Stonehaven Judo Club and The Academy
In the summer of 2014, over a casual conversation at the local public house following a fun day with Stonehaven Judo Club, coaches Stuart and Gordon planted the seeds for what would become an unforgettable experience: a tour of Japan for a small group of judoka students. The idea was simple but ambitious—give young judo enthusiasts the trip of a lifetime, blending cultural exploration with judo training to deepen their understanding of both the sport and the country that gave birth to it. Within just two weeks, the trip was announced, places were allocated, and the planning began in earnest.
After more than a year of meticulous preparation, a combined team from Ultimate Judo and Stonehaven Judo Club made their way to Tokyo for what would be an experience like no other. Recreational players, young and old, balanced sightseeing with intensive judo training, absorbing the spirit of Japan while honing their skills in the very heartland of judo.
At the core of the trip was the rare opportunity to train at the Kodokan, the global center for judo. For many judoka, training at the Kodokan is a lifelong dream, and our group was fortunate enough to spend several sessions on its iconic mats. Stepping into the dojo where Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo, first developed and taught the martial art was an awe-inspiring experience.
The training sessions were intense but rewarding, with the group refining their techniques under the guidance of experienced Kodokan instructors. It was here that the students began to truly understand judo not just as a sport, but as a way of life—a balance of discipline, respect, and personal growth.
When not training, the group set out to explore the rich history and culture of Japan. Tokyo's mix of the modern and the traditional provided endless opportunities for discovery. We visited ancient shrines and temples, where the serenity of these sacred spaces gave the children a quiet contrast to the intensity of training.
One of the trip’s highlights was a visit to Fuji San (Mount Fuji), Japan’s most famous mountain. The breathtaking views and the sense of majesty surrounding this natural wonder left a lasting impression on everyone. It was moments like these that helped the students appreciate the deep connection between Japan's landscape, culture, and judo philosophy.
Japan's culinary culture is renowned worldwide, and for many on the tour, trying new foods was an adventure in itself. From sushi to ramen, the group eagerly sampled dishes they had never tasted before, each meal adding to the richness of the experience. The opportunity to embrace Japan’s unique flavors was just another way the trip helped broaden the students' horizons.
No trip to Tokyo would be complete without a visit to Disneyland, and the group’s day there was filled with fun, laughter, and a much-needed break from the rigorous judo training. The excitement and energy of Tokyo Disneyland provided a perfect balance to the educational and physical aspects of the trip, allowing the students to simply enjoy the magic of being in Japan.
One of the most memorable parts of the tour was a private lecture on the history of judo at the Kodokan, delivered by the esteemed Murata Sensei. The students listened attentively as Murata Sensei shared stories about Jigoro Kano, the philosophy behind judo, and how the sport has evolved over the years. This lecture added depth to their training, as they began to understand not just the technical aspects of judo, but also the values and principles that underpin it.
Ultimate Judo’s first tour of Japan, in collaboration with Stonehaven Judo Club, was more than just a training trip—it was a journey of personal growth, cultural discovery, and unforgettable memories. The group returned home not only as better judoka but also as individuals who had gained a profound appreciation for Japan’s culture and the roots of judo.
From the iconic Kodokan training sessions to the cultural landmarks and even the fun-filled moments at Disneyland, this tour laid the foundation for future adventures, setting a new standard for what it means to truly immerse oneself in the world of judo. This experience gave each participant a lifetime of memories and a deeper connection to the sport and its birthplace—Japan.
It was a trip that not only strengthened the skills of the students but also fostered camaraderie and a lasting bond between Ultimate Judo, Stonehaven Judo Club, and The Academy.
"i have always had a fascination with Japan and to visit with my friends and train at the Kodokan will always be one of my best experiences. The trip showed me Judo is more than a sport and having such inspirational coaches who live and breath Judo was inspiring"
Academy, Class of 2015
