Way of Japan 4400 Ashe Road, Bakersfield, CA 93313

"I trained under Sensei Abe and Sensei Jason for years! Absolutely, easily the best dojo in the area and upmost professionalism. I left for over a decade to the military, but the discipline and teachings I learned at Way of Japan led me to so much success I use to even this day!"

"All the sensei’s and senpai’s are great, they work very well with the students and are very detailed with their teachings. It is a Clean and friendly environment. My son has learned so much discipline and respect since joining the dojo. They have kids from age 5+ to adults and they work excellently with every different age group. The elders help the littles one and it feels like a family environment because everyone is just so friendly and willing to help others in the dojo itself. Sensei Abe really puts his all in his dojo. Highly recommend."

"Best traditional karate dojo in town. Sensei Belardo is extremely knowledgeable and professional and has years of experience training and coaching students of all skill levels and abilities. I highly recommend the Way of Japan dojo for anyone interested in traditional karate, developing discipline, or improving their physical fitness."

"My family and I have been training here for 14 years. Outstanding, world-class instruction from Sensei Abe Belardo and Sensei Jason Hanby. One of the few dojo’s that strikes a good balance between traditional shotokan karate and modern fighting styles. Way Of Japan is the only Shotokan Karate International Federation Dojo in Bakersfield. (S.K.I.F.) and has a reputation for elite level athletes. Great instruction does not have to cost a fortune. A black belt from Sensei Abe means you’ve earned something significant. WoJ will always be my karate home."

"I have trained with Sensei Abe at Way Of Japan for more than 20 years, as have my children. Sensei Abe is a genuine Martial Arts Master, with over 50 years of experience as a Martial Artist, professional kickboxer, and fighter trainer. Sensei Abe holds legitimate Black Belts in 4 different styles of Karate, ranging from 1st to 6th Don (degree), and has trained with some of the legends of Martial Arts, both in the U.S. and in Japan. At Way Of Japan you learn both traditional Shotokan style Karate and practical Kickboxing/Muay Thai techniques to make you a well rounded Martial Artist. Sensei Abe, and the other instructors, teach each student respect, responsibility, courtesy, and determination along with the skills of a Martial Artist. In my 20+ years in Martial Arts I have met, trained with, and come to know many of the Martial Arts instructors and schools in Bakersfield/Kern County. I respect many of them and consider several of them as friends. Still, my first choice for Martial Arts training, and the only place I recommend is Way Of Japan."