Shorinji Kempo - Portland / East Portland Branch

- 1907 NE 45th Ave, Portland, OR 97213

For Oregon residents seeking a martial arts experience that is both authentic and deeply fulfilling, Shorinji Kempo's East Portland Branch is a true standout. This is more than just a place to learn self-defense; it is a "hidden gem," as one customer review describes it, where a traditional Japanese martial art rooted in Shaolin Kung Fu is practiced with genuine passion and dedication. Shorinji Kempo uniquely blends hard techniques (goho), like punches and kicks, with soft techniques (juho), which include joint locks and throws. This combination makes it an incredibly practical system for real-world self-defense while also providing a deeply rewarding personal journey. The practice goes beyond the physical, incorporating Zen philosophy and moral discipline to create a holistic approach to self-improvement.

Unlike many commercial martial arts schools, this branch of Shorinji Kempo is focused on the mastery of the craft, not on a business model. The instruction is a testament to the art's authenticity, with a strong emphasis on understanding not only the physical movements but also the underlying philosophical principles. Students learn to move, redirect, protect, and control, gaining a comprehensive skill set that is both effective and deeply personal. Whether you're a parent looking for a structured activity for your child or an adult seeking a challenging new path to physical and mental wellness, Shorinji Kempo in East Portland offers a supportive and genuine environment for your martial arts journey. As a result, students consistently leave feeling "stronger, smarter, and more centered."

The Shorinji Kempo - Portland / East Portland Branch is conveniently located at 1907 NE 45th Ave, Portland, OR 97213, USA. This address places the school in a well-established and accessible area of Portland, making it easy for residents of the city and its surrounding communities to get to their classes. The location's accessibility is a key factor for individuals and families managing busy schedules, offering a straightforward commute.

The facility is committed to being an inclusive and welcoming space for all. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which ensures that the school is available to individuals of all physical abilities. The presence of a restroom on-site adds to the overall convenience and comfort for students during their training sessions. The school's professional yet humble setting creates a focused and respectful atmosphere, allowing for a serious and dedicated approach to learning. The blend of a convenient location with a commitment to accessibility makes this a practical choice for anyone looking to engage in martial arts in the Portland area.

As a traditional martial arts school, Shorinji Kempo - Portland / East Portland Branch offers a specialized curriculum centered on the unique principles of Shorinji Kempo.

• Shorinji Kempo Training for Adults: The primary focus is on teaching the complete system of Shorinji Kempo. This includes a balanced curriculum of goho (hard techniques like strikes, kicks, and blocks) and juho (soft techniques like joint locks, escapes, and throws), which provides a comprehensive self-defense skill set.
• Kids' Classes: The school offers dedicated classes for children. These programs are designed to teach the fundamentals of Shorinji Kempo in a safe and structured environment. The focus is on building discipline, focus, and physical coordination in a way that is engaging and fun for young students.
• Philosophy and Discipline: A key component of the training is the integration of Zen philosophy. Students learn not only physical techniques but also the moral and spiritual principles that underpin the art, fostering personal growth and a deeper understanding of themselves.
• On-Site Services: The club operates with on-site services, providing a professional and consistent training environment for all members.

Several key features make Shorinji Kempo - Portland / East Portland Branch a highly recommended choice for martial arts in the region.

• Authentic and Traditional Practice: The school is praised for being an authentic dojo that is not commercially driven. It focuses on traditional techniques and philosophy, offering a genuine martial arts experience that is increasingly rare to find.
• Knowledgeable and Passionate Sensei: The instructor, Sensei Damien, is a "true master of his craft" with "extensive" knowledge. His passion for Kempo is contagious and inspires students to train with dedication. He takes the time to ensure each student fully understands both the physical and philosophical aspects of the art.
• Comprehensive Self-Defense System: The unique blend of goho (hard) and juho (soft) techniques provides a well-rounded and practical self-defense skill set. This combination means students are prepared for a variety of real-world scenarios, making the training incredibly valuable.
• Focus on Personal Growth: The practice of Shorinji Kempo is described as deeply fulfilling on a personal level. The emphasis on moral discipline and Zen philosophy helps students feel "stronger, smarter, and more centered" with every class.
• Inclusive and Professional Environment: The school's commitment to accessibility, along with its professional and respectful atmosphere, makes it a welcoming place for all ages and abilities. The community is supportive and encouraging, which is crucial for a challenging martial arts journey.

For more information or to inquire about joining a class, you can contact the Shorinji Kempo - Portland / East Portland Branch using the details below.

Address: 1907 NE 45th Ave, Portland, OR 97213, USA

Phone: (503) 719-2361

Choosing a martial arts school is a significant decision, and Shorinji Kempo in East Portland offers a compelling case for why it is a worthwhile choice. Its core strength lies in its unwavering commitment to authentic, traditional practice. In a world full of mass-market martial arts schools, this branch is a sanctuary for those who seek genuine skill development, deep philosophical understanding, and true personal growth. The instruction is led by a passionate and knowledgeable Sensei who ensures every student receives the attention and guidance they need to succeed. The comprehensive curriculum, which combines both powerful striking and practical grappling techniques, provides a well-rounded and effective self-defense skill set. For anyone in the Portland area looking for a martial arts school that is a true "hidden gem," a place that will challenge you physically and enrich you mentally, the Shorinji Kempo - Portland / East Portland Branch is an excellent destination. It is a place where you can become a part of a community dedicated to excellence and self-improvement, leaving every class a better version of yourself.

Shorinji Kempo - Portland / East Portland Branch

1907 NE 45th Ave, Portland, OR 97213, USA