ABOUT US

The Small Forest Dojo was created in 1971, 3619 West Davie Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.  At that time it was called Yamashita Dojo.  Since 1971, the Dojo has been relocated to many locations, Hollywood, Margate, Plantation, etc.  In 1971, Sensei Bud Shafer, 8^th Dan, with the permission of Sensei Tadashi Yamashita, moved his Dojo from Indiana to the Fort Lauderdale area.   The goal was to spread Kobayashi Shorin-Ryu Karate, Suikendo, and Matayoshi Kobudo.

Since 1971, Sensei Shafer and his instructors have taught the Master Yamashita way to thousands of students.  Most students have previous Martial Arts training but we have always accepted new beginning students.  Small group, as well as private lessons are available.  Instructors and students enjoy a wide range of Martial Arts training in Karate, Kobudo, and Sensei Yamashita's dynamic Suikendo.  Many seminars with Sensei Yamashita are conducted yearly in Florida and throughout the world.  At the seminars Karate / Kobudo Kata, Bunkai, and Suikendo, are taught to all students and instructors.  There is no consideration given to rank when training with Master Yamashita.  We are all students and train together. No matter the rank we all work hard. Trips to Okinawa to study Karate and Kobudo take place about every two years.  All students are invited to attend and enjoy the culture as well as extensive training in the arts.