Carson Valley Dojo is an affiliate of Shotokan Karate of America (SKA), a nonprofit organization teaching traditional karate-do in the United States since 1955.
Regular practices are held through Douglas County Parks & Recreation Department (775.782.9828). For dojo practice schedule and location click here.

We strictly adhere to the traditional instructional system created by Master Funakoshi, the founder of shotokan, who is widely considered the "father" of modern karate. For example, we do not award non-traditional colors of belts, award black belts higher than Godan (5th degree), invent new kata (forms), or place emphasis on flashy techniques at the expense of effectiveness. The traditional ranking system of SKA assures that when you are ready for grading, the rank you are given is indicative of your actual ability.

Gichin Funakoshi has said that "mind and technique become one in true karate." We strive to make our physical techniques pure expressions of our mind's intention, and to improve our mind's focus by understanding the essence of the physical techniques. By polishing our karate practice we are polishing our own spirit or our own mentality. For example, eliminating weak and indecisive movements in our karate helps to eliminate weakness and indecision in our minds--and vice versa.

As a part of SKA, we participate in regional events, exchange practices, and advanced classes with well-known instructors. There are over 14 dojos (schools) in Tahoe, Sacramento and San Francisco Bay areas.

More broadly, we are affiliated with more than 140 dojos in the US and 18 different countries including Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, Israel, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Netherlands, Switzerland and others. Students relocating or visiting these places can be assured of the opportunity to continue their training.

2004 SKA-West Dojo of the Year
Shotokan Karate of America (SKA), the oldest karate organization in the US, has named Carson Valley Dojo the Dojo of the Year 2004 in the West region.

This title is awarded to a dojo that has demonstrated traditional SKA qualities like serious practice mentality, non-profit spirit, participation in karate events and, of course, quality of instruction among other things. It is NOT awarded on the merit of number of students (obviously) or other commercial criteria, which makes it much more meaningful.