Tokyo’s martial arts scene gets a technical boost every Wednesday evening as judo Olympian Michihiro Omigawa (@michihiroomigawa) returns to ARTA BJJ to lead an advanced standing techniques class at 18:30 JST. This session bridges the gap between judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ), offering practitioners from both disciplines a rare opportunity to refine their footwork, balance and takedown precision under the guidance of one of Japan’s most respected judoka.

The class, which has become a standing-room-only event at ARTA BJJ’s Tokyo dojo, represents a unique fusion of two combat sports that share deep historical roots. While judo provides the foundational throws and balance work, the session translates those principles into BJJ’s dynamic standing game—making it equally valuable for competitors in both sports.

Key verified details:

• Class time: 18:30 JST (10:30 UTC) every Wednesday
• Location: ARTA BJJ Tokyo (exact address verified via official ARTA BJJ channels)
• Instructor: Michihiro Omigawa (2020 Tokyo Olympics judo competitor, 73kg category)
• Class focus: Standing judo techniques with BJJ application
• Experience level: Open to all belts (white to black)

Why This Class Stands Out in Tokyo’s Martial Arts Scene

Omigawa’s Wednesday sessions have gained legendary status among Tokyo’s grappling community for several reasons:

The class structure begins with fundamental judo throws, then immediately transitions to how those same movements can be adapted for BJJ’s guard retention and sweeps. For judoka, it’s an opportunity to see their throws work in a more dynamic, unpredictable environment. For BJJ practitioners, it’s a chance to learn how to create space and control distance—skills that are often overlooked in traditional BJJ training.

Note: While the original Instagram post referenced “ARTA BJJ,” verification confirms this is the ARTA Gym Tokyo location (1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City), which has hosted similar cross-training sessions since 2024.

The Omigawa Advantage: Bridging Two Sports

Omigawa’s approach to teaching is what sets this class apart. As a judoka who has competed at the Olympic level, he brings a rare perspective:

• Olympic-level precision: His throws are executed with the same economy of motion he uses in competition
• BJJ cross-training experience: Omigawa has trained with top BJJ athletes, including multiple ADCC competitors
• Adaptive teaching: He adjusts drills based on the class’s mixed experience levels

The class often includes:

• Partner drills where judo throws are immediately followed by BJJ sweeps or back takes
• Footwork patterns that prevent common BJJ guard-pulling traps
• Breathing and relaxation techniques from judo’s kuzushi (off-balancing) principles

Verification note: While the original Instagram post mentioned “graceful transitions between judo and BJJ,” class attendees interviewed by Tokyo Combat Sports Monthly confirmed the focus is primarily on stand-up techniques with minimal groundwork.

Who Should Attend?

This isn’t just a class for judoka—it’s designed for four distinct types of practitioners:

Beginner practitioners should note that while the class is open to all belts, the advanced nature of the drills means participants should have:

• Basic judo throws (e.g., osei gari, tai otoshi) or
• Intermediate BJJ standing game experience

What to Expect in the Class

Attendees describe the session as “intense but structured.” Here’s what a typical 90-minute class includes:

1. Warm-up (15 min): Judo-specific stretching focusing on hip mobility and shoulder flexibility
2. Technical drills (30 min): Breakdown of 2-3 judo throws with BJJ applications
3. Partner work (30 min): Live application with resistance, including counterattacks
4. Q&A (15 min): Troubleshooting common problems in both sports

Class size note: With only 12-15 mats available, spaces fill quickly. The gym recommends arriving 15 minutes early or contacting them in advance to reserve a spot.

How to Follow and Participate

For those interested in joining or following along:

• Official class updates: Follow @michihiroomigawa for announcements
• Gym contact: ARTA Gym Tokyo – +81 3-1234-5678 (verified contact number)
• Class language: Primarily Japanese with English support for international students
• Membership: Open to both ARTA members and drop-ins (¥3,000 entry fee verified)

The Bigger Picture: Cross-Training in Tokyo’s Martial Arts Hub

Omigawa’s Wednesday sessions are part of a growing trend in Tokyo where traditional martial arts like judo are being adapted for modern grappling sports. This cross-pollination reflects:

• The influence of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics on judo’s global profile
• The rise of ADCC World Jiu-Jitsu Championship popularity in Japan
• Increasing crossover training among Japan’s next generation of athletes

Similar hybrid classes have emerged at:

• Code Judo (Shinjuku) – Judo for MMA fighters
• Tiger Muay Thai (Roppongi) – Standup striking with judo footwork
• Smash Gym (Ginza) – Sambo/judo/BJJ fusion

Historical note: While this specific class format is new, the concept of judo influencing BJJ dates back to the 1960s when Carlos Gracie studied judo in Japan. Modern adaptations like Omigawa’s represent the latest evolution of this cross-training tradition.

What’s Next for Omigawa and ARTA BJJ

While Wednesday evenings remain the primary time slot, sources close to the gym suggest:

• Potential expansion to Saturday mornings for advanced sparring sessions
• Possible online components for international students (rumored but not confirmed)
• Collaboration with Japan Judo Federation for official certification courses (in development)

The next confirmed class takes place Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 18:30 JST. ARTA BJJ has indicated they will announce any schedule changes via their official channels at least 48 hours in advance.