Structured karate lessons for children, teens, and adults, taught by Sensei Tanaka and senior instructors.
Fun, engaging karate classes for young children (ages 6+), focusing on basics and character development.
Practical self-defense techniques integrated into karate instruction for real-world safety.
Emphasis on respect, discipline, confidence, and manners as core components of training.
Monthly 'bring a friend' weeks and welcoming classes for new students of any fitness level.
So for the past month I decided to go and start practicing Karate over at Tanaka's Karate Dojo. You can tell that Tanaka Sensei loves his art with his dedication and experience. At 35 years of age, and being over weight and out of shape, there has been nothing but positivity from the Sensei, the Senpi and the other students. I love practicing there and I look forward to continuing my journey in learning Karate and getting in shape.
I followed my son and grandsons to Tanaka's in 2016, enrolled, and have hardly missed a session since. Well-run and accessible, from the beginning students are taught by Sensei Tanaka--chair of the USA Karate Technical Committee, trainer of judges and referees, internationally recognized, living and teaching here in Anchorage for 50 years. A cadre of experienced and mature senior instructors, all good teachers; students range from 6 to 60+; family friendly. Sensei Tanaka is engaged with every student in every class. No frills or hype, solid instruction with emphasis on life-skills and character.
Tanaka's martial arts academy is a karate dojo that has been in alaska since 1969. It is a dojo that focuses on respect and self discipline. When you go to tanaka's you learn control over the mind and body, while also learning self defense. Sensei tanaka has a variety of classes for all ages. And if you are a student already he has a week where you can bring a friend to beginning classes every month. I strongly recommend coming to see for yourself, because I learned that karate is more than just a way to fight, or an art. But it's a way of life. A way of life that teaches others to bring a better part of themselves out. This man is trying to change this generation into a generation of do-ers. He has changed my perspective of life, and I guarantee he will change yours as well.
I have been a student and dojo owner under Sensei Tanaka for over 20 years. I have trained in martial arts for 33 years. The more I trained in karate with Sensei Tanaka, the more I realized how great of a teacher and mentor he was. He is one of the highest black belts in the world as well as one of the best. Alaska is very fortunate to have him. You will learn much more than Karate at Tanakas Martial Arts Academy. You will learn good manners, respect, self discipline which unlock your keys to a successful life. Building good character is what karate is all about! Thank you Sensei Tanaka for all that you have done for me and thousands of others!
My son has been coming here for years. It has been a great experience. Sensi Tanaka has taught my son confidence, manners and so much more. Not only has it been good for my son it tends to be pretty entertaining sometimes for the parents, especially the little dragons class. My son has started school and I firmly believe that the things he has learned from Sensi Tanaka's karate classes has helped prepare him to be a helpful, nice and respectful student. It's not only for kids but it's great for adults too. Many of the classes are a good mix of adults and kids. I highly recommend.

Building character through karate for all ages in Anchorage since 1969.
No photos available
Tanaka's Martial Arts Academy, led by internationally recognized Sensei Tanaka, offers authentic karate instruction in Anchorage for over 50 years. We welcome students from age 6 to 60+, focusing on traditional karate, self-defense, and life skills like respect, discipline, and confidence. Our family-friendly dojo provides a supportive environment where beginners and advanced practitioners alike can grow physically and mentally. Join our community to experience more than just martial arts—a way of life that transforms character and builds a better you.
Claim Tanaka's Martial Arts Academy to update business info, respond to reviews, and access analytics.