Shōrinji Ryū Karate:
a complete fighting system.
Shōrinji Ryū (Shoh-reen-jee Ree-you) Karate (少林寺流空手) is a traditional style of Okinawan karate that traces its roots to both indigenous Okinawan fighting arts and Chinese martial influences. The name Shōrinji (少林寺) means "Shaolin Temple," while Ryū (流) means "style" or "school."
Shōrinji Ryū blends powerful strikes, joint locks, throws, and practical self-defense techniques. Rooted in both Shuri-te and Shaolin influences, it emphasizes fluid movement, dynamic footwork, and internal power while preserving the deep philosophical and spiritual aspects of karate. Unlike sport-focused styles, Shōrinji Ryū remains true to its combat-effective origins, training practitioners in both kata and bunkai (application) to develop real-world self-defense skills. With a strong emphasis on discipline, adaptability, and personal growth, it is a complete martial art that cultivates both body and mind.
- KIDS PROGRAM -
Our Shōrinji Ryū Karate classes for kids provide a fun and structured way for children to develop confidence, discipline, and physical fitness while learning real martial arts. Through dynamic movements, self-defense techniques, and traditional kata, kids build focus, coordination, and respect in a supportive dojo environment. More than just kicks and punches, our classes teach valuable life skills like perseverance, self-control, and teamwork—helping children grow both on and off the mat.
Free 1-Week Trial
$175 - billed per month.
- Teen/Adult PROGRAM -
The Academy’s adult classes are designed to build strength, confidence, and real-world self-defense skills. Rooted in traditional Okinawan martial arts, Shōrinji Ryū blends dynamic strikes, joint locks, throws, and kata practice with a deep emphasis on focus, adaptability, and inner balance. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced martial artist, our classes offer a structured yet flexible approach to mastering technique while improving fitness and mental clarity. Step onto the dojo floor and experience the art of karate in a way that challenges both body and mind. Join us, and let’s train together with purpose.
Free 1-Week Trial
$195 - billed per month.
- kids karate camp 2026 -
A dedicated week of karate training is invaluable for a student’s progress. Karate camp provides distilled, focused instruction, allowing your child to advance faster by sharpening their skills. Through a mix of structured training, exciting drills, and team-building activities, students will leave camp feeling stronger, more confident, and more motivated than ever before. Hours: 9am-2pm daily.
July 20-24: 7-9 yos, $459 SOLD OUT
August 3-7: 10-14 yos, $519
- private sessions -
Private sessions allow you to train at your own pace, focus on specific challenges, and develop a deeper connection to the art. Perfect for beginners seeking a strong foundation or advanced practitioners honing their skills, customized coaching ensures you target your deficits while fine-tuning your overall game. You can choose to refine technique, build strength, improve flexibility, and/or deepen your understanding of kata and self-defense. One-on-one instruction offers personalized feedback and goal planning.
Free Week
$125 per 60 minutes.
$160 per 90 minutes.
spring Bonus: free 30 minute private session
Whether you're looking to build discipline, make new friends, or just try something new, The Academy is a welcoming place to begin. Try out unlimited classes for
one week and discover the zen warrior within. We look forward to meeting and training with you!
💥 Once the free trial has been completed, kids will receive a complimentary 30 min private session with Sensei. (60 min private session for Teen/Adults.)💥
how do Shōrinji Ryū karate Basics work?
Body Dynamics (or the motions of opposite): These trademark movements are seen in classical Karate, primarily visible during solo practice (Kata).
Structure: The structure involves achieving proper skeletal alignment to maximize the effectiveness of each movement while using the muscles efficiently.
Frames: These postures are typically demonstrated during Kata (solo form practice), with hands held in various positions around the upper body: Low/Middle, Middle/High, or High/Low.
Footwork: Horse Stance (Kiba-Dachi), Front Stance (Zenkutsu-Dachi), Back Stance (Kokutsu-Dachi): each promotes rapid, stable movements that enhance evasive maneuvers during combat and create angles to maximize your force while minimizing the opponent's strength.
☀️ new? try our 2 month summer starter package ☀️
Begin your martial arts journey with a starter pack and discounted lessons! Enroll in our 2 Month Summer Starter Package before June 15th, and train between the dates of June 15th and August 15th. Kids classes are 60 minutes while Teen classes are 90 minutes.
Kids: choose between our Starter Program (two classes per week) or the Premier Program (up to four classes per week).
Teens: choose between our Starter Program (two classes per week) or the Premier Program (up to three classes per week.)
All 2 Month Summer Packages include the Starter Pack: a TMAA T-shirt, belt, water bottle and drawstring bag. If you know you're ready to commit and would like a full uniform, upgrade to our Pro Starter Pack for an additional $40 and get a traditional Karate gi uniform and drawstring bag.
starter program
- kids -
$319.
Premier Program
- kids -
$419.
2 classes per week
- teens -
$349.
3 classes per week
- teens -
$449.
What is kata, and why is it important?
Kata is the heart of karate. It is far more than a sequence of movements practiced alone—it is the soul of martial arts, preserving the knowledge, strategies, and fighting principles of past masters. Through consistent practice, kata develops muscle memory, spatial awareness, and internal energy, allowing techniques to become instinctive in real combat. Mastery of kata is not just about perfecting form; it is about unlocking deeper levels of understanding, blending movement with intent, and embodying the very essence of one’s art. To train kata is to train the mind, body, and spirit as one.
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Contact Us
We are happy to answer any questions you may have about signing up for a trial week, class passes, or a monthly membership. If you have further questions, you can call, text, or email Sensei Will using the contact information below.
The Martial Arts Academy of Marin
1414 4th Street, Suite 100, San Rafael, CA 94901
415.747.4483 (call or text)