Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu · Athlone, Co. Westmeath
Train in authentic Ninjutsu rooted in 900 years of Japanese martial tradition. Taught in the heart of Ireland's midlands.
Our Heritage
"The essence of Ninjutsu is not the technique — it is the spirit that transcends all technique."
Ninjutsu isn't what you see in the movies. It's a complete system of movement, awareness and self-defence — practical, grounded, and built to work for real people. The Bujinkan organisation preserves nine classical Japanese martial schools, passed down through generations of masters for over 900 years. Our head instructor, Joseph Lillis, trains directly within that lineage.
The Athlone dojo has been running since 2000. You don't need to be fit, young, or have any martial arts background. People of all ages and abilities train here together — that's the way it has always been done.
The Bujinkan system draws from nine distinct Japanese martial traditions — covering unarmed combat, weapons, and strategy — making it one of the most complete systems in existence.
No prior experience needed. Complete beginners and senior grades train in the same class — you progress at your own pace in an environment that is respectful and never competitive.
This isn't a modern invention or a sport. What you learn here has been handed down person to person, generation to generation, from feudal Japan to Athlone.
The Sensei
Directly affiliated with Grandmaster Masaaki Hatsumi in Japan, our instructors carry an unbroken lineage of authentic Bujinkan teaching.
The Curriculum
Each class covers a mix of these elements — you won't specialise in just one thing. That breadth is what makes Bujinkan different.
Train With Us
Regular sessions throughout the week in Athlone. Come and train with us.
One class open to absolutely everyone — complete beginners and experienced students train together. No prior martial arts experience required. All ages welcome. Each session covers unarmed technique (taijutsu), traditional weapons, and the philosophy of the nine schools.
All welcome No experience needed All agesWhat People Say
I started with zero martial arts background and felt welcome from day one. The training is challenging but the instructors explain everything clearly. Best decision I've made in years.
Unlike any other martial art I've trained in. The depth of the Bujinkan system is incredible — weapons, movement, history, philosophy. The Athlone dojo has a fantastic atmosphere.
My son started at 16 and it has transformed his confidence and discipline. The mutual respect and community in this club are second to none. Highly recommended to anyone in Westmeath.
Six months in and the difference is remarkable — not just physically but mentally. The instructor is knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely passionate about preserving this art.
I travel from Mullingar every week and it is completely worth it. Authentic ninjitsu, not watered-down sport karate. The lineage and tradition behind this art is deeply fascinating.
I came along not knowing what to expect and was hooked immediately. The community is tight-knit and supportive. Never felt intimidated as a complete beginner. Cannot recommend it highly enough.
Get In Touch
Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced martial artist, we'd love to hear from you. Fill in the form and we'll be in touch.
