Shidoshi S James is a current 5th dan karate black belt, teaching classes across London.  He has many students training toward their black belt in karate and kickboxing while still maintaining his own high standards for the martial arts.

Shidoshi (meaning teacher of the warrior way and a title bestowed upon him by Shihan D Jacobs 8th Dan) has been training in karate since 1989.  Gaining his 1st dan black belt in 1993, he immediately started teaching with a senior instructor of the club.

In 1998, Shidoshi started his own classes in Portsmouth, running the area successfully for over 25 years.  During this time, he saw many students grade to black belt and then follow him into the teaching world. 

He has continued to train and learn, incorporating Kobudo into his repertoire.

Shidoshi believes in martial arts being an integral part of a person’s wellbeing and character development.  In an evolving global landscape, martial arts can bring an inner peace to the individual and a sense of togetherness to the wider community. 

‘While seemingly surrounded by violence, the martial artist is the most peaceful of people’ – Shidoshi S James

What we offer

Shidoshi S James, 5th Dan, is an experienced martial arts instructor who teaches specialist courses and seminars internationally, sharing his knowledge and practical experience with martial artists around the world. His courses cover a range of traditional and practical martial arts skills, with particular emphasis on Bunkai—the detailed study and application of techniques contained within traditional kata. Through clear instruction, practical training and a strong focus on understanding the principles behind each movement, Shidoshi James helps practitioners develop greater technical ability, confidence and understanding of their martial art.