New Students Welcome — No Experience Necessary
Kobaka Dojo is currently accepting new students for both our Adult Jujitsu program and Youth Program. If you've always wanted to learn a traditional Japanese martial art, this is your opportunity. Contact us to schedule a free introductory class and see the dojo for yourself.
Inquire about classes →In Memory of Soke Michael J. LaMonica
We were deeply saddened by the passing of Soke Michael J. LaMonica on October 16, 2024. His presence is greatly missed and always will be. Kobaka Dojo remains committed to preserving his legacy by keeping our techniques as true to his teachings as possible.
Read about our lineage →Koho Shiatsu Study Now Available
The healing art at the heart of Hakko Denshin Ryu is now offered as a dedicated study track. Students interested in the theoretical and therapeutic side of the system — meridian theory, pressure points, and Koho Shiatsu practice — may enroll alongside or independent of Jujitsu training.
Learn about Koho Shiatsu →Hakko Denshin Ryu Jujitsu in the Tradition of Soke LaMonica
Kobaka Dojo teaches Hakko Denshin Ryu Jujitsu — a traditional Japanese martial art emphasizing practical self-defense through body control, joint manipulation, and pressure-point technique. We teach under the direct lineage of Soke Michael J. LaMonica, Menkyo Kaiden-Shihan San Dai Kichu, whose version of the art Soke Okuyama himself called the purest preservation of his techniques.
All instruction at Kobaka Dojo is provided by Shihan Joel Bosler-Kilmer, a direct student of Menkyo Kaiden SDK Chris Kobak. We welcome adults and youth of all ages, with no prior martial arts experience required.
Training at Kobaka Dojo is grounded in the traditional values of Budo: discipline, respect, continuous self-improvement, and genuine care for fellow students. We are affiliated with the Eighth Light Dojo — North American Hombu.
Founded in 1941 by Soke Ryuho Okuyama, Hakko Ryu Jujutsu — "Eighth Light" — is grounded in meridian theory and Koho Shiatsu. Techniques appear minimal but operate on the body's pressure points with profound effect, requiring no reliance on strength or size.
一 Jujitsu
Core grappling, joint locks, and throws drawn from classical technique. Practical and efficient — designed for real-world application with minimal force.
二 Koho Shiatsu
The healing art within the system. Students learn the same meridian points used in technique, building a complete understanding of the body for both defense and health.
三 Atemi
Precision strikes to vital pressure points that create openings for control. Subtle and targeted rather than reliant on speed or power.
四 Waza
Formal partner practice forms that build muscle memory, proper body mechanics, and deep understanding of each technique's underlying principles.
五 Henka
Practical variations for modern self-defense scenarios, including applications developed for law enforcement — adaptability within the classical framework.
六 Ukemi
The art of falling and receiving technique safely. Fundamental from the first class — proper ukemi protects both training partners at every level.
We offer structured training for adults, teens, and youth. All classes are taught by certified Menkyo holders within the Hakko Denshin Ryu lineage.
| Day | Time | Class | Ages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday | TBD | Adult Jujitsu | 16+ |
| Thursday | TBD | Youth Program | 8–15 |
| Saturday | Morning (TBD) | Adult Jujitsu | 16+ |
Private instruction is available by appointment. Contact us to arrange a session.
Chris Kobak
Head instructor and founder of Kobaka Dojo. SDK Kobak holds the Menkyo Kaiden, the highest technical certification in Hakko Denshin Ryu, awarded under Soke LaMonica.
Joel Bosler-Kilmer
Shihan Bosler-Kilmer trained directly under SDK Chris Kobak and brings dedicated instruction and a deep understanding of Hakko Denshin Ryu principles to every class at Kobaka Dojo.
New students are always welcome. Use the form to get in touch, ask questions, or schedule a free introductory class.
Kobaka Dojo7509 W Smithville Western Rd
Wooster, OH 44691
Phone: (234) 249-2889
Email: [email protected]
Affiliated with the Eighth Light Dojo — North American Hombu, Akron, Ohio.
Ready to get started or have questions? Reach out directly and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Send Us an EmailOr call us at (234) 249-2889