Tengu Martial Arts Chiang Rai

Bushikan-Ryu Karate
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a blend on Ninjitsu

ABOUT THE MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL

The core style taught at Tengu Martial Arts is called Bushikan-Ryu Karate which mainly consists of a blend of Karate and Ninjitsu. The name blends powerful imagery—Bushi meaning “warrior,” Kan meaning “house,” and Ryu meaning “dragon.” Bushikan-Ryu is a unique mix of Karate, Taekwondo, Ninjitsu, and other martial arts from Japan, China, and Korea. Like most Karate systems, it includes traditional forms called katas; however, what sets it apart is its balanced approach. While many styles focus mainly on competition or purely on self-defense, Bushikan-Ryu trains students in both. Since Karate and Taekwondo are Olympic sports, sparring at Tengu incorporates techniques from both for realism, safety, and competitive skill development. As students advance, they explore even more sparring methods and fighting strategies.

Bushikan-Ryu has been around since 2008 and was created by Sensei Joe, whose journey shaped the heart of the style. It blends soft and hard techniques, competitive training, real-world self-defense, and even elements of spiritual and mystical practice. The system has a strong foundation—especially through its katas—but the curriculum ranges from simple to challenging, requiring dedication and perseverance, as any true martial art does.

Students learn more than just how to fight. They build self-confidence, self-control, discipline, competitive spirit, resilience, and a sense of inner peace. Sensei Joe teaches that being tough isn’t about being a bully or showing off. True toughness comes from training hard, believing in yourself, and staying connected to nature and your inner spirit. This mindset doesn’t take away from enjoying life—it helps shape you into a stronger, better person.

How can martial arts help my child?

Martial arts may seem simple at first glance—but what it offers children can be truly life-changing. It’s not just about learning how to kick, punch, or defend themselves. It’s about building a deep sense of confidence that carries into every part of their lives. When a child knows they can stand strong, face challenges, and protect themselves if needed, they begin to carry themselves differently—with pride, courage, and self-belief.

At Tengu Martial Arts, that transformation goes even further. This isn’t just a place to train—it’s a place to belong. Every student who walks through the doors becomes part of the Tengu family. It’s an environment where friendships are formed, encouragement is constant, and no one is left behind. Younger students look up to those with more experience, inspired by their discipline and growth, while older students naturally step into leadership roles, learning how to guide and support others. Together, they create a culture built on respect, teamwork, and shared success.

Through consistent training, students develop strength not only in their bodies, but in their minds. They learn how to push through moments when things feel difficult, how to stay focused when distractions arise, and how to keep going even when progress feels slow. These lessons extend far beyond the dojo. Many students discover that the discipline and concentration they build in martial arts begin to show up in the classroom, helping them improve academically and approach challenges with a stronger, more determined mindset.

This is something Sensei Joe understands deeply. Through his own journey in Karate, Taekwondo, and other martial arts, he experienced firsthand how training shapes character, builds resilience, and supports success both in and out of school. That experience is now passed on to every student who trains under his guidance.

Tengu Martial Arts stands apart because it refuses to take shortcuts. Here, progress is earned through effort, perseverance, and commitment. Students are challenged to rise above excuses, to give their best, and to take pride in the work they put in. It’s not always easy—but that’s exactly the point. Growth comes from pushing limits, from facing challenges head-on, and from refusing to give up.

In the end, Tengu Martial Arts is more than just a dojo—it’s a place where strong, confident, and self-reliant individuals are built. It’s where children learn that with hard work, discipline, and the support of a strong community, they are capable of far more than they ever imagined.

About

meet the staff

MEET OUR STAFF

Sensei Joe isn’t just a martial artist—he’s a lifelong warrior driven by passion, purpose, and an unbreakable connection to the path he walks.

His journey began at just four years old, mimicking techniques he saw on television with nothing but curiosity and determination. But everything changed in 1992 when he met Grandmaster Kenshi Hiroshi, an 8th-dan master of Tengu Ninjitsu. Under his guidance, Joe found not just a teacher, but a true mentor. Although Grandmaster Hiroshi passed away in 1994 before realizing his dream of opening a new school, the impact he left behind would shape Sensei Joe’s path forever.

Instead of giving up, Sensei Joe pushed forward.

From 1997 onward, he immersed himself in training—joining a Shito-Ryu Karate school and his cousin’s Taekwondo program, before transitioning into Shorin-Ryu Karate. For over a decade, he trained relentlessly under multiple masters, sharpening his skills and deepening his understanding of martial arts until 2011.

But Sensei Joe didn’t just train—he led.

Between 2000 and 2011, he became a key figure behind the scenes in multiple martial arts schools. From recruiting new students and running belt tests to coaching at tournaments and organizing competitions, he gained real-world experience that many instructors never achieve. Along the way, he discovered a unique strength: the ability to connect with students others struggled to reach. Having ADHD himself, he became one of the rare instructors who could truly understand and effectively teach students with ADHD—turning challenges into strengths.

And his knowledge? It’s nothing short of extraordinary.

Sensei Joe has studied a wide spectrum of martial arts, including Muay Thai, Muay Boran, Krabi Krabong, Arnis, Tengu Ninjitsu, Krav Maga, Pencak Silat, Jujitsu, Judo, Wrestling, Kobudo, Kenjitsu, Wing Chun, Tai Chi, and more. His style is not limited by tradition—it’s built from experience, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of mastery.

Outside the dojo, his life reflects the same discipline and dedication. He served eight years in the Civil Air Patrol, earning the rank of captain. He’s worked with the Red Cross, served as a federal law enforcement officer, and now shares his knowledge as an English teacher in Thailand—deepening his connection to the culture he has long admired. Living in THailand, he has also authored numerous books.

Sensei Joe’s story is more than a biography—it’s proof that passion, perseverance, and purpose can forge something truly powerful.

Below are some of his major achievements:

MARTIAL ARTS RANKS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

7th-dan black belt – Bushikan-Ryu Karate
5th-dan black belt – Tengu Ninjitsu
4th-dan black belt – Shorin-Ryu Karate
4th-dan black belt – Taekwondo
2nd-dan black belt – Takahashi Kobudo Kenjitsu
8th-kyu orange belt – Shito-Ryu Karate
Karate Survival Camp Certificate
First-ever recipient of the Grandmaster Kenshi Hiroshi Award (2016)
Inducted into the Tengu Shinobi Warrior Hall of Fame (2023)

Tournament Highlights:

Multi-time Taekwondo and Karate champion (1998–2007)
2000 Battle of Columbus World Games Taekwondo Champion
2000 Summer Taekwondo Olympic Grand Champion
2002 Ohio Taekwondo State Champion
2007 Martial Arts Grand Championship – Grand Champion

EDUCATION

Master of Education in Advanced Teaching
Master of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science (criminal justice & social issues focus)
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice

OTHER CERTIFICATIONS

106 United States Civil Air Patrol and Air Force certifications
36 Federal Emergency Management Agency certifications
36 United States Department of the Interior certifications
15 Red Cross certifications
22 Safe Schools Training certifications
2010 Private Security Firearms certification

This combination of martial arts mastery, academic achievement, and real-world service makes Sensei Joe not only an experienced instructor but a mentor who brings discipline, compassion, and wisdom into every class he teaches.

Sensei Joe

Master Instructor

Nok was born and raised in Chiang Rai, Thailand. She previously worked as an ICU nurse and holds a master’s degree in nursing education from Thailand, as well as a Master of Arts in Health Business Administration from North America. She has experience handling visas and work permits as a government liaison officer for an international school in Thailand, and she now works as a nurse educator at a college.

Nok

Secretary

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