Tohkon Dojo

Tohkon Dojo in Chicago is guided by President and Head Instructor Douglas Tono, a veterans world champion whose leadership anchors a team of experienced instructors including multiple veterans world champions and national referees. The academy’s roots in judo run deep, reflected in its broad teaching staff that covers kata, junior development, and women’s classes, as well as active roles on the Chicago Judo Black Belt Association promotion board. While primarily a judo-focused academy, Tohkon also offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes, integrating both disciplines to provide a rounded grappling education. Students at Tohkon train across a range of levels and age groups, from “Cubbies” classes for the youngest practitioners to advanced adult sessions. The BJJ program includes fundamentals, intermediate, and advanced gi classes, with women’s classes offered separately. Open mat sessions are available for adults 16 and over, blending judo and jiu-jitsu practice. Juniors have their own gi classes, and the dojo’s schedule supports consistent progression through skill levels with multiple weekly sessions. Beyond regular classes, Tohkon Dojo maintains a strong connection to traditional Japanese culture and judo values through events like Kangeiko, an outdoor winter training to build mental discipline, and Kagami Biraki, a New Year’s ceremony featuring demonstrations and cultural activities. The dojo also hosts the annual Tohkon Classic tournament, attracting competitors nationally and internationally. These events underscore the academy’s role as a training ground that honors judo’s heritage while fostering competitive and recreational grappling.

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