The Jigoku Dojo

 

May 2024

The Jigoku Dojo was originally founded in 1988. However, the Jigoku Dojo was a concept and existed wherever Hanshi Marc established a training group. As with many martial artists, Hanshi Marc dreamed of having his own dojo, so he would not be reliant on using sports halls, or other premises. Finally, when Hanshi Marc and his wife moved into a large country house, he had the opportunity to turn a large garage into a small dojo. This was the original first permanent Jigoku Dojo.

An original work by Elaine Donati

                                             

  At first, it was intended for small classes, but as people heard of the no-nonsense karate system being taught, the dojo began to fill up. Even with staggering the classes, there was not enough room. So Hanshi Marc decided to invest in a second Jigoku Dojo. The first would be converted into a purpose-built Dojo.

The second Jigoku Dojo soon began to take shape. Hanshi Marc was clear in his mind that he wanted this larger Dojo to have a Japanese style. He also wanted amenities on site so there is an outside toilet and washing facility.

 

                                   

 Detail of the wooden Buddha and KBGD sign.

 

                                         Kaicho Jon Bluming R.I.P. watches over us.

 

                          The Chinese Victorian gong with a hand-carved stand from 1880s.

 

                               Ruby, the Dojo dog enjoying a quiet moment in the Dojo.

 

Shinai and focus pads, with one of Hanshi Marc’s black belts, a gift from Soke Marcel Vanderschaeghe (Team Jigoku Germany).

 

       From Shihan Marcel van den Berg, a beautiful bespoke wooden piece for the West wall of the                                                                                Dojo.

 

                             Kyokushin Budōkai Goshin Dō kanji from Shihan Todd Reeves

 

The new Jigoku Dojo’s first international instructor Soke Marcel Vanderschaeghe with his children and Hanshi Marc. Soke Marcel delivered a superb session in gi chokes. A huge thank you from all the attendees.