Flat Rock Dojo
Traditional Okinawan Karate Dojo in Flat Rock, NC
Welcome To
Flat Rock Dojo
Welcome to Flat Rock Dojo—a judgment-free, family-operated Karate dojo in Flat Rock! At Flat Rock Dojoo, we train in Shorin-Ryu Karate as members of the Kensankai Association founded by Hanshi Doug Perry. This approach is deeply rooted in the Okinawan traditions of martial arts, blending physical techniques with the rich philosophies of Okinawa. Under the current leadership of Kaicho Jason Perry, we continue to honor and expand this unique lineage, ensuring that every aspect of our training embodies the authentic spirit and legacy of Okinawan Karate. We offer classes for any age group starting at 4 years and up! Come join us and bring the whole family into a wholesome environment for traditional Karate lessons in Flat Rock!
Sign up for a free Karate Class!
No better way to get started than with a free class. Take advantage of our special offer to come in and see what Karate training is all about. It is the perfect opportunity to be introduced to the art and Flat Rock Dojo!
Lean more about
Flat Rock Dojo
Our School
In the spirit of tradition and respect, Flat Rock Dojo offers a space for the study of Shorin-Ryu Karate, following the teachings of Sensei Doug Perry. Our approach is grounded in respect and dedication, with a focus on the personal growth of each student. No matter your age, skill level or experience, we individualize your Karate training to best help you grow. Our instructors are humble, kind, respectful, and are willing to help you with any physical limitations you may have. Everyone has their own style of teaching while no one is judged for their ability. We are all in this together! Come join our close-knit community, where learning and self-improvement are pursued with determination.
Our History
We trace our lineage through Doug Perry. Hanshi Perry started his journey in combat sports as a 9 year-old in 1946 in Boxing. He participated in 147 bouts in many different organizations, winning State, Regional, and National titles.
While finishing up his Boxing journey, Hanshi Perry started training martial arts in 1956 – around the same time he joined the Marines. This is where he first began building his Karate skills, training under many distinguished Karate practitioners and becoming an honorable soldier in many aspects. He continued to become a master in Karate, leading to earning the rank of Hachidan and being appointed to represent the Shorinkan Kyokai in North America.
Throughout his lifetime, Hanshi Perry owned many dojos while teaching others. He began teaching Karate in Flat Rock in 1981. In fact, he taught all of our black belts! This includes the Belue family. Ben was the first member of the family to train under HanshiPerry in 2014. Then in 2015, Jamie and the kids joined him. The impact he had on the family was profound, leading to them opening Aoyama Dojo. He was such a giving person and they wanted to give something back to him. The dojo opened in January 2024, before his passing, and was created to carry on his legacy. He wanted everyone to train Karate in a safe place like Aoyama Dojo. Now, each day at Flat Rock Dojo is dedicated to Doug Perry, a true leader in the Karate community.
What Set Us Apart
Flat Rock Dojo is a place unlike any other. Our Traditional Okinawan Karate Dojo uses the past teachings of those we admire and bring people together. Every student is welcomed into our family and treated like one of our own.
Okinawan Karate is the safest martial art there is. Karate’s injury rate is the lowest with Okinawan being the lowest in all of Karate. As well as that, our instructors make sure to take into account all physical limitations. Students are guided to perform techniques they are capable of and won’t risk injury.
We keep tradition alive and well at Aoyama Dojo. We are inspired by those who have come before us, and use their teachings to help our students grow. You will even learn some Japanese language and courtesies during training!
Aoyama Dojo has the highest concentration of Black Belts in the area. We have multiple senior Black Belts, with over 20 active in the dojo.
This is a family-run and operated Karate dojo. The Belue family were all trained by Doug Perry, the inspiration for this dojo. They greatly valued his contribution to the art and their family.
We don’t forget about helping all those in our community. You will find that we will have different times throughout the year with women’s self-defense classes and seminars. These are designed to help you to prepare you for tough situations.
At the core of our culture is staying judgement free. We understand every student has their own situation and obstacles they are working to overcome. You will be supported every step of the way as our Karate lessons can become a life changing experience for you.
Our Karate Class Schedule!
Find the right time to get started at Flat Rock Dojo. Check out our class schedule to see when kids Karate, adult Karate, or our Little Ninja classes start. Take a look!
See What We’re Up To
Words from our Community
Aoyama is a special Flat Rock Karate Dojo for everyone. Our rich background with masters of the art and spectacular leaders guides us to be the best we can be. Everything we do is to continue the traditional Karate practices to help each and every student. You won’t find this dedication anywhere else. And if you need to hear more, go take a look at what the Aoyama community has to say about our dojo!
“There is so much heart and karate experience in the instructors that there is always something new to learn. Highly recommend!”
“I started at 51 and I’m 73 and still going strong! Come and check it out. You will not be disappointed!”
“I have been associated with the Aoyama Dojo since their opening. it is a great training space and has many experienced members. “
“Both of my sons trained under Hanshi Perry, and this dojo is part of his lineage. The lessons they learned aided them to become successful, respectful, and men of integrity.”
Sign up for a free Karate Class!
No better way to get started than with a free class. Take advantage of our special offer to come in and see what Karate training is all about. It is the perfect opportunity to be introduced to the art and Flat Rock Dojo!
Contact Us!
Our dojo is not just for those looking for Karate in Flat Rock. We invite everyone in Hendersonville, Landrum, Fletcher, Arden, Asheville, and everyone else nearby! You can find our facility right off I-26 and Upward Road!