We are a world class Shotokan karate program connected to a network of dojos around the country, and the oldest active dojo in Tokyo, Japan.

We provide traditional and personalized martial arts instruction to kids and young adults interested in learning the art of karate-do and self-defense.

In our Family Karate classes, kids (ages 6-11) and their parents can learn and practice together. Since we were founded, it has always been our objective to create a space where parents, siblings, adults and children can learn together and support each other’s development.

In addition to our Family Karate classes, we offer a special Tiny Tiger program that provides personalized session based training for 4-1/2 and 5 year old children (limited to no more than 8 kids per session).

We do not host kids birthday parties (because we want our students to respect the dojo and that they are learning techniques that have the potential to harm or protect from harm).

Kids are extraordinary and enjoy learning; however, we do not teach children younger than age 4-1/2. Over the past 20 years, we have learned that kids at this age are just beginning to gain the necessary attention span, motor skills and knowledge of their left and right. We believe it is in their best interest (and parents financial interest) to wait until at least age 4-1/2 to begin training.

We want our kids to train with us because they love it. We do not require contracts or extended financial commitments. We know that life gets in the way, and kids these days are involved in many different activities. We will not financially penalize parents if your child wants to take time off to try baseball or go out for the school play. It is okay to pause your membership and return again at a later date.

No Contracts! No Registration Fees! No Gimmicks! Outstanding Martial Arts Training at Excellent Value!

Sensei Andrew Faupel is the Chief Instructor and founder of Kenkojuku Karate of South Jersey and began his journey in Shotokan karate 40 years ago. The majority of his training was within the USA Kenkojuku Karate Association under Master Masakazu Takahashi, 8th Dan. Sensei Faupel was promoted to the rank of Godan (5th degree black belt) in 2025 by Kancho Tomokatsu Okano of the Kenkojuku Honbu in Tokyo, Japan. Over the last decade he has spent considerable time encouraging a greater connection among Kenkojuku leaders in the United States and Japan. In 2019 he was appointed as a Senior Advisor and is now President of the American Shotokan Karate-do Kenkojuku Alliance.

Karate is an excellent discipline that promotes character development, hard work, determination, self-protection, self-control and courtesy. Here are a few things you should know before your child takes their first class:

Sensei and the other students are there to help your child, not hurt them. Everyone in the room was once a white belt. Sensei and the other instructors will be mentors and do everything they can to welcome, guide and encourage your child.

Your children will learn and demonstrate respect and become respected by their colleagues. As a traditional Japanese martial art, Shotokan karate is rooted in courtesy. Gichin Funakoshi (the father of modern karate) once said, “Karate begins and ends with courtesy” and you and your child will feel that as soon as you walk into the dojo.

Kids will work hard in a safe, positive environment. They should come to class ready to listen and learn.

Your child will build strength, flexibility, speed, coordination and technique. That said, it is not a race. Everyone goes at their own pace in their journey in the martial arts.

Karate training is as much mental as physical. Kids will learn mental discipline and focus. The practice of karate-do is a way of life that teaches how to adapt to obstacles in the dojo and in daily life.

We are South Jersey’s #1 Family Karate School. Since our creation over 20 years ago we have encouraged family members to train in the martial arts together! It never made sense that parents should sit on the sidelines and not take advantage of all that our program offers while they wait for their child. Over the past few decades I have seen so many family members join and grow together in their training with their children. We hope you take advantage of our outstanding family tuition rates and choose us as your martial arts home.