4.9 average across Google reviews. These are real words from real Hanabi families — parents, adult students and neighbours in Albany.
We want to thank Hanabi Judo and Master Sensei Dan for welcoming our son into this amazing kids’ judo program. Since joining, he has grown tremendously—not just in skill, but in confidence and discipline. Sensei Dan is exceptional with children; his patience and ability to connect with them make every class enjoyable and productive. If you’re looking for a program that combines learning, fun, and a great sense of community, we highly recommend Hanabi Judo for your family. It’s an experience you’ll truly love!
Hanabi Judo replied: McNeil, thank you so much for your kind words. We are glad you appreciate our program.
My daughter (4th grade) LOVES Hanabi Judo! She has a physical disability that makes running difficult and has weaker leg strength. I wasn’t sure how she would fare in Judo but I always encourage her to try different activities. Judo has been absolutely wonderful for her. She truly loves it! She comes home having worked her body out hard, telling me excitedly about the new pins and throws she has learned. It has given her a lot of confidence in her body and abilities too. The teachers seem great. Highly recommend!
Hanabi Judo replied: Claire, I am glad that your daughter loves judo. We love having her!
Hanabi is our second family! The community here is so welcoming and supportive that the children feel safe and cared. My son is seven now and he has been playing Judo at Hanabi since he was four. Hanabi has definitely made a huge contribution in building confidence in my son. He enjoys going there. The staff is professional and can deal with young kids. If you have kids, bring them to Hanabi. You won’t regret it.
Hanabi Judo replied: Shingis, thank you! We are happy to have your family as part of our big Hanabi Family.
My four year old daughter started at Hanabi Judo a couple months ago and really enjoys it. Sensei Dan is warm, engaging, and supportive and does a great job keeping the kids in line. The little kids are adorable in their gis and it’s lots of fun to watch them lead the class in exercises and battle each other.
There are so many things we love about Hanabi. The Sensei’s know well how to engage the young ones, keep them focused, disciplined, yet have fun at the same time. The older one’s are taught to look after the younger children, help them, and engage with them in a fun and caring way. There is a real sense of community, and care here, where everyone seems to carry a sense of pride and place. I would and do highly recommend Hanabi to anyone interested in trying out Judo for their children or for themselves.
The instructors created an excellent environment for my 6-year-old son and his classmates, having fun and learning Judo while practicing respect for one another. It’s a place with a lot of positive history that works to create a sense of community among the members. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for martial arts for their kids.
I started Judo 8 years ago at age 41 after participating as a child for a year or two way back when. It’s been a great way to stay in shape. Dan Augustine and family provide a great environment for adults and kids. I have made progress physically and mentally from Judo. Instructors from around the world, great Judo family — what more could a person ask for. Very thankful for Hanabi Judo.
Incredibly energetic and welcoming teachers! The studio is about more than a sport, the kids are learning language, songs, games, value of friendships, importance of perseverance. We are lucky to have found Hanabi Judo during the pandemic — thank you for engaging and inspiring my kid!
My son started Judo at Hanabi and I am impressed with his development so far. The instructors are very engaging and masterful at helping my little one (5 years young) to focus and execute the moves with intention and precision.
My son is four years old and is full of energy. I appreciate their ability to redirect his energy, as well as allow him to release it. It’s nice to have instructors who work well with toddlers who have a tough time listening and following directions. My son is learning so much from his instructors, he’s listening more, using his fine motor skills and they keep it fun and playful.
My son started when he was 3 and now 7. Perfect combination of discipline and support. Great culture and phenomenal guidance. Can’t say enough good things about what Sensei Dan has developed.
Incredible instructor and atmosphere. Healthy blend of skill levels and Sensei Augustine truly instills the values of a martial artist in all athletes.
Skillful staff, family and friendly values oriented, educational in Japanese culture, good discipline in manner and attitude of respect to each other. You will feel like you have joined an extended family!
A wonderful place to learn Judo with a thriving community.
My kids (Nicholas and August) had a spectacular time last week with you guys. They were very sad to have the camp end! Thank you so much!
This is a terrific place if you’re looking for a martial arts class for your kids — a good balance of discipline and fun, and an introduction to Japanese culture.
Great teachers, fun class. Kids learn some Japanese too. Highly recommend this Dojo.
Safe, fun, and nurturing environment for little ones to get introduced to the art of judo.
