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Nakata Dojo

KARATE THAT ASKS
FOR FOCUS

A traditional practice for kids and adults that builds attention, discipline, and confidence through effort — not overstimulation. Traditional martial arts in Urbandale, Iowa

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From Our Head Instructor

A Message to Parents

Have you ever really watched your child try to move? Not just running around, but doing something that requires control, like a single push-up or a cartwheel. If you haven't, or if the result surprised you, you aren't alone. We are seeing a silent crisis today. It is physical, but it is also mental. Screens and constant entertainment are training young brains to crave immediate dopamine. When that stimulation stops, many children struggle to focus, listen, or simply sit still. It isn't because they are "bad kids." It is because the world is competing for their attention every second of the day. At Nakata Dojo in Urbandale, we offer a different environment. We are not here to entertain your child or sell you a quick fix. We are here to build a foundation.

Kenji Nakata Head Instructor, Nakata Dojo
Kenji Nakata seal
Lineage

Where It Comes From

Nakata Dojo traces directly to Kenwa Mabuni, the founder of Shito-Ryu, through four generations. The path from Okinawa passed through Japan, then through Mexico, through the hands of two Japanese men who ended up in the same city far from home.

Every rank at Nakata Dojo is issued through the World Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Federation and personally overseen by Shihan Alonso Murayama. The lineage is unbroken and verified.

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Our Philosophy

Four Pillars of Training

The foundation of everything we teach at Nakata Dojo

Kihon

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

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

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

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

Foundations
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
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Youth & Teens
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
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Adult
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
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Leadership

Meet Our Instructor

Dedicated teachers with decades of experience in traditional martial arts

Kenji Nakata

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

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

Authenticity Matters

All the photos on our website feature real Nakata Dojo students—these aren’t stock photos. We take pride in capturing the progress of our students, and we even offer a free picture day so that families can celebrate our student's journey in Karate-Do. We believe in highlighting the real faces of our community.