June 2026 We did a drop in class while on Kauai. The dojo is very clean, spacious and air conditioned. The professor was super friendly and inviting. He introduced us as visitors from CA and with tru Hawaiian spirit, the fellow grapplers showed us love and were very welcoming. The class was FILLED with purple belts. I've never seen so many in one room at a time, except for competitions. The training was very technical and easy to follow. The specific training was on point and the 5-min sparring rounds were the icing on the cake. If I lived here, this would be my gym. Mahalo! read more

Esaki Jiu Jitsu Academy - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Lihue, Hawaii

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My spouse trained here a handful of times when we were on the island for a vacation. Great group, awesome welcoming attitudes, and an immaculately clean studio. Whenever we go to a studio and there are adult women training, especially advanced practitioners, we know it is going to be a great program. Owner was incredibly kind and knowledgeable. We skipped the meathead studio on the coconut coast in lieu of this place. Couldn't be happier. Will go again next time we are in Kauai. read more

Was visiting Ohana on the west side and was recommended Esaki's by my Cuzn. Touched base with someone on Instagram who welcomed me to drop in and shared I would need a white gi to train. They also shared they have liners in case I needed. It's always nice to find a gym that is welcoming and friendly the fact that everyone at Esaki was super technical and in control during rolls was just icing on the cake. They also welcomed my 12 year old son to train that day even though it was an adults class. I couldn't recommend this place enough. Do confirm the schedule ahead of time, we showed up at 0900 and it was no gi not gi, but regardless this place has top notch instruction with class act student, a true product of their teachers no doubt! Mahalo Esaki for your malama, I'll be back in the future! Aloha Bubba read more

We took our whole family and some friends while on vacation. The gym was very clean, and all of the people were very friendly. In class all the students were very technical and fun to train with, both in the kids class and the adult class. I would highly recommend this academy for kids or adults. read more

While vacationing in Kauai, I sought out training at Esaki Jiu-Jitsu as it's part of the Atos and namely AOJ affiliation. They offer classes at convenient times such as 9:00 in the morning and 7:00 in the evening. Either option allowed me to get out and around the island before or after training. The academy vibe is mellow and inviting, where the students are all welcoming and eager to pair up with me (a visitor) for drilling the moves of the day. Prof. Evan is quiet (reserved), but a great host in regards to making you feel a part of the academy and making sure you are getting the move of the day. I really noticed his patience and support for the white belts, as some of the techniques can seem advanced and modern (but still approachable via Prof. Evan's instruction). When it came to rolling, I never lacked for an eager rolling partner (I'm an upper belt visitor that isn't very intimidating in appearance), which I expected. What I loved is that everyone rolled with strong technique (AOJ and Atos technical aptitude) and intensity that made for some great rounds where we both ended the roll with mutual respect and love for the sport. Overall, a great, mellow vibe with tough and strong rolls where you can walk away with mutual respect for each other. Loved my time here and enjoyed my week of training with Esaki Jiu-Jitsu. Tips: White Gis only (per usual Atos/AOJ); can be humid (bring lots of water and pack a towel for afterwards). read more

Did a couple of drop ins this week primarily to burn off too many plate lunches and shave ice. Mellow vibe, just like my home gym. Professor Evan is awesome and pretty technical. Drilling and rolling partners also great. Everyone was super nice and welcoming. I plan to visit whenever I come back to Kauai. read more

If I could give more stars I would! I'm only on the island for a short time and I wanted to get my training in. I'm so glad I went to Esaki Jiu Jitsu. From the start they were so welcoming, on and off the mat. Such a great learning experience. Professor Evan and Professor Ian taught so many things that I was excited to write them down as soon as I got to my hotel. Legit rolls and they have great merchandise. The facility is immaculate and I'd be happy to train there again before I leave the island. Definitely worth checking this place out if you're on Kauai. read more

Great place to train. Evan is a solid instructor, really breaks down the technique. Nice and clean gym and friendly atmosphere.