Shitō-ryū is one of the four major traditional Japanese karate styles, founded by Kenwa Mabuni in the 1920s. It is a comprehensive system, combining the, fast, long-range, linear techniques of Shuri-te (Itosu-ke) with the close-range, circular, and breathing-focused techniques of Naha-te (Higaonna-kei). Known for having the largest number of kata (over 60), it is characterized by high speed, precision, and a blend of hard-soft techniques, making it popular for both self-defense and competition.

Am I too old to start learning Karate?

You’re never too old to start learning Karate! At Nakata Dojo, we welcome students of all ages, including adults who are new to martial arts. Karate-Do is not just about physical fitness—it’s also a journey of self-improvement, discipline, and mental resilience. Whether your goal is to stay active, learn self-defense, or challenge yourself, Karate can be adapted to your pace and abilities. It’s never too late to start your journey!

How are classes structured at Nakata Dojo?

Classes typically begin with a warm-up, followed by instruction in kihon (basics), kata (forms), and kumite (sparring). Each session is designed to develop technique, strength, and understanding of Karate-Do principles.

How many times a week do we train at Nakata Dojo?

To stay on curriculum, students need to attend at least two classes per week. This ensures consistent progress in learning Shito-Ryu Karate-Do and meeting requirements for belt advancement. However, we have an unlimited Karate membership that allows you to train up to 5 times per week.

What additional resources are available to help me train outside of class?

Nakata Dojo provides online learning materials that you can access anytime to practice at home. These resources complement your in-person training and help reinforce what you’ve learned in class.

When is Nakata Dojo open, and how do I schedule my classes?

Nakata Dojo is open Monday through Thursday and on Saturdays. Students can choose their preferred training days each week and book classes through our convenient member app. This flexibility allows you to create a schedule that works best for you.

Do I have to sign a contract or long-term commitment at Nakata Dojo??

No, at Nakata Dojo, we don’t require long-term contracts or commitments. We believe in offering flexibility so students can train at their own pace. If your heart is no longer in training, we provide an easy exit option. Our goal is to create a positive and welcoming environment where you’ll want to stay and grow on your Karate-Do journey.

How long does it take to earn a black belt at Nakata Dojo?

Earning a black belt at Nakata Dojo is a journey that requires dedication, consistent training, and a deep understanding of Shito-Ryu Karate-Do. On average, it takes 4 to 6 years of regular practice to achieve a black belt, depending on your commitment and progress through the curriculum. Along the way, you’ll master techniques, kata, and self-defense skills, while developing discipline and perseverance. Remember, the journey to black belt is about more than the rank—it’s about becoming the best version of yourself through Karate-Do!

What is the difference between Karate-Do and other martial arts?

Karate is a traditional Japanese martial art focused on precise strikes, stances, and kata, blending physical training with discipline and self-improvement. Unlike some other martial arts, Karate-Do as taught at Nakata Dojo emphasizes balanced hand and foot techniques, traditional forms, and the values of respect and perseverance, making it a unique and holistic martial art.

I have a green belt in another martial art. Can I start at the same rank at Nakata Dojo?

At Nakata Dojo, we recognize and respect your achievements in other martial arts. However, since each style has its own unique techniques, forms, and ranking criteria, all students begin their journey in Shito-Ryu Karate-Do at a white belt. This ensures you build a solid foundation in the principles and techniques specific to our style. Your prior experience will likely help you progress quickly, and we’re excited to support you as you advance in your Karate-Do journey.

Kata is a series of structured movements that simulate combat scenarios, teaching precision, balance, and focus. At Nakata Dojo, practicing kata is a key part of training in Shito-Ryu Karate-Do. It not only sharpens techniques but also instills discipline and a deeper understanding of the art.

Nakata Dojo | Traditional Karate-Do

Our Philosophy

Four Pillars of Training

The foundation of everything we teach at Nakata Dojo

Kihon

The foundation of Karate-Do. Students rotate through stationed circuits so everyone stays engaged while the instructor gives real-time feedback. This is where tradition meets discipline and strong basics are built.

Kata

Pre-arranged patterns of movement that sharpen memory, focus, and precision. Kata is a moving meditation that connects students to centuries of Karate-Do tradition.

Bunkai

The key to understanding kata. Students learn how each movement works in real-life situations — turning blocks into defense and steps into escapes. Bunkai makes training practical and exciting.

Kumite

Beginners start with footwork, striking mechanics, and timing drills. As they grow, kumite evolves into safe, controlled partner practice that develops confidence, awareness, and strategy.

Our Programs

Age-appropriate training designed to meet every student where they are

Ages 4-12

Foundations

Our youngest students build the fundamentals of martial arts through structured play, basic techniques, and character-building activities.

Etiquette
Learn the basics
Learn the class structure
2-4 weeks

Start Here

Ages 4-16

Youth & Teens

Dynamic 50-minute sessions that challenge students to grow in and out of the dojo.

Real instruction, small groups
Morning and evening classes
Adaptive Training
Homeschool options

Start Here

Ages 17+

Adult

A powerful way to sharpen body and mind, no matter your skill level. You’ll benefit from:

Improved fitness, flexibility, and balance
Stress relief and mental clarity
Practical self-defense techniques
A supportive community of dedicated practitioners

Start Here

Leadership

Meet Our Instructor

Dedicated teachers with decades of experience in traditional martial arts

Kenji Nakata

Head Instructor | 2nd Dan | Shidoin WSKF

At Nakata Dojo, every student becomes part of a living tradition. Our Karate-Do comes directly from the founder of Shitō-Ryū, passed down teacher to student through four generations. I represent the fourth generation in this unbroken chain, and that’s why I personally lead every class. While I may have assistants to help with details, your child will always learn directly from me. This personal connection is part of our tradition — just as my teacher guided me, I guide every student here. That’s how we ensure Karate-Do remains authentic, meaningful, and never watered down.

Shihan Alonso Murayama

Standing Director of WSKF & General Director of Shito-Kai Murayama

Our instruction is supervised by Shihan Alonso Murayama, a 7th Dan in Shito-Ryu Karate-Do and a former member of the Japan National Team & Panamerican Games medalist. Shihan Murayama visits Nakata Dojo twice a year to provide expert guidance, ensuring that our students in Urbandale receive world-class martial arts instruction. He oversees and approves all Rank Exams, maintaining our connection to the World Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Federation. His extensive experience and leadership in the international karate community ensure that our dojo adheres to the highest standards of traditional Karate-Do.

4th Generation Lineage ↗

Testimonials

What Parents Are Saying

Real stories from our dojo family

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"My child has been going for about a month. She has special needs along with mobility struggles. I called a few places in the Metro and this dojo was the only one willing to take her without exception. Sensei at the dojo is amazing with her. Hes so kind and patient. Kiddo has a modified session to accommodate her needing one on one instruction. She is already getting stronger! We actually cut out one of her PT sessions already. Yay! I just wish more parents of kiddos with special needs knew of this dojo so she could have another kiddo in her session to help motivate her. Please note my opinion, kiddos with special needs should be able to stand without assistance and follow basic instructions to be successful at the dojo."

— Amy J., Parent

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"Kenji does a great job getting the students acclimated to the structure of class! He does not shy from giving constructive feedback to the students but does so in a way to motivate the students and give them something to work towards. Scheduling and class options are great."

— Kaitlin C., Parent

“

100% Recommended. I'm so happy my children train at this dojo. The instructor is passionate about teaching karate to children, very dedicated, and kind to his students. They learn very well and love the training. The instructor also speaks Spanish, so more people have the opportunity to train here and understand the instructions.

— Kenia R., Parent

In 1970, a Japanese karate master named Kunio Murayama was asked to leave Japan and bring Shito-Ryu to a new country. He went to Mexico. He never left.

Around the same time, a man from Hokkaido made the same journey. Not to teach karate, but to work in agricultural technology on the egg farms beginning to modernize in northern Mexico. He built a life there and became part of the Japanese immigrant community in Monterrey. That man was Kenji Nakata’s father.

Two Japanese men, far from home, in the same city. That is how this lineage arrived.

Shihan Kunio Murayama with young Kenji Nakata, Monterrey, 1992

Shihan Kunio Murayama with Kenji (right), Monterrey, Mexico — 1992

Kenji grew up between two cultures, Japanese and Mexican, and trained his entire karate life under Shihan Murayama. Every rank he holds was issued personally by Murayama. That tradition continues today through Shihan Alonso Murayama, Kunio’s son, who formally oversees all rank examinations at Nakata Dojo.

When Kenji opened this dojo, he designed an emblem. The red circle is the hinomaru, the Japanese flag. The crane is the official bird of Hokkaido, his father’s home. The rice fields at the base are the literal meaning of the family name: 中田, Nakata, meaning “middle rice field.” And 道場 on the left means “the place where the way is practiced.”

Founder of Shito-Ryu · 1934

武

Kenwa Mabuni 摩文仁

Founder of Shito-Ryu Karate-Do

Studied under Anko Itosu and Kanryo Higaonna, two of the greatest masters in Okinawan history. Founded Shito-Ryu in 1934, synthesizing both lineages into a single system with over 50 kata — more than any other major style. One of four styles recognized by the World Karate Federation and featured in Olympic competition.

Direct Student

岩

Manzo Iwata 岩田

Uchi-deshi of Kenwa Mabuni · President, Japan Karate-Do Shito-Kai · 1924–1993

One of Mabuni's most trusted students and eventual uchi-deshi. Became president of Shito-Kai and received the Japan Martial Arts Distinguished Service Medal in 1993. Carried the technical foundation of Shito-Ryu with complete fidelity to the original system and passed it to the next generation through two direct heirs.

Two Direct Heirs

Uchi-deshi of Manzo Iwata
村
Shihan Kunio Murayama 村山
8th Dan WSKF · Toyo University Karate Club Captain · 1944–2023
Born in Miyagi, Japan. Became uchi-deshi of Manzo Iwata at Toyo University. Sent to Mexico in 1970 to teach Shito-Ryu and never left. Founded Shito-Kai Murayama International in Monterrey with members across Latin America, Europe, and beyond. Technical Director of the Mexican National Karate Team. His Spanish was broken until the day he passed. His standards never softened.

Son and Successor of Manzo Iwata

源

Hanshi Genzo Iwata 岩田

Chief Instructor, Shito-Kai Honbu Dojo · Tokyo, Japan · Born 1958

Began training under his father Manzo Iwata at age 12. Began demonstrating Shito-Ryu internationally alongside his father in 1978. Succeeded Manzo as Chief Instructor of the Shito-Kai Honbu Dojo in Tokyo. One of the highest living authorities in traditional Shito-Ryu worldwide.

Dual Lineage

WSKF Standing Director · Son of Kunio · Uchi-deshi of Genzo Iwata
総
Shihan Alonso Murayama 村山
7th Dan · Former Japan National Team · Panamerican Games Medalist · Born 1974
Son of Kunio Murayama. Trained under his father from childhood. Traveled to Japan and became uchi-deshi of Hanshi Genzo Iwata, living with him full time. The only foreigner ever to compete on both the Japan and Mexico national karate teams (1993–1997). Standing Director of the World Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Federation. Visits Nakata Dojo twice yearly and personally oversees all rank examinations.

Direct Supervision

Shihan Kunio Murayama
All ranks issued personally

Shihan Alonso Murayama
Current formal teacher

4th Generation · Nakata Dojo · Urbandale, Iowa

中

Sensei Kenji Nakata 中田

2nd Dan · World Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Federation

Sensei Kenji's entire karate formation — every Kyu and Dan rank — was conducted and issued personally by Shihan Kunio Murayama. Since Shihan Murayama's passing in 2023, Shihan Alonso Murayama is formally and factually his teacher. Two direct connections to the source of the style, across two chapters of the same lineage. Personally leads every class at Nakata Dojo.

This lineage is unbroken and verified. Every rank at Nakata Dojo is issued through the World Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Federation and personally overseen by Shihan Alonso Murayama — connecting each student directly to the founder of the style.

武道

Nakata Dojo

KARATE THAT ASKS
FOR FOCUS

A Message to Parents

Where It Comes From