Chow-Hoon Goshin Jitsu
Monterey Sports Center Club
"Art of Self Defense"
Learn Kempo, Japanese JuJutsu, Judo, Escrima / Arnis, Hawaiian Lua, and practical self-defense in Monterey, CA.
Monterey Sports Center Club
"Art of Self Defense"
Learn Kempo, Japanese JuJutsu, Judo, Escrima / Arnis, Hawaiian Lua, and practical self-defense in Monterey, CA.
From feudal Japan to the Monterey Peninsula — a living lineage
Professor Seishiro "Henry" Okazaki
Founder, Danzan Ryu Jujitsu
The foundation of our martial arts program begins with the remarkable legacy of Professor Seishiro "Henry" Okazaki (1890–1951), the founder of Danzan Ryu Jujitsu. Born in Fukushima, Japan, Professor Okazaki immigrated to Hawaii in the early 1900s and dedicated his life to the study of martial arts after overcoming a serious illness through rigorous training.
Drawing from numerous Japanese jujitsu traditions, Judo, Karate, Chinese martial arts, and Hawaiian fighting systems, he developed Danzan Ryu Jujitsu, a practical and comprehensive martial art that emphasizes effective self-defense, physical fitness, personal character, and service to others. His vision was to create a system that not only prepared students to defend themselves but also helped them develop discipline, confidence, and respect.
Professor Okazaki's approach to teaching was innovative for its time. He welcomed students from all backgrounds, believing that martial arts training should be accessible to anyone willing to dedicate themselves to learning. His curriculum combined throwing techniques, joint locks, pins, striking methods, escapes, and defensive tactics into a complete system of self-protection. Equally important was his emphasis on personal growth and community service. Professor Okazaki believed that martial artists should strive to improve themselves physically, mentally, and morally while using their skills responsibly and with compassion.
Among Professor Okazaki's many accomplished students was Professor John Chow-Hoon, a distinguished martial artist who played a significant role in preserving and advancing the teachings of Danzan Ryu Jujitsu. After earning his black belt under Professor Okazaki, Professor Chow-Hoon served more than twenty years in the United States Army, where he instructed military personnel, military police, and law enforcement officers in practical self-defense techniques. His extensive teaching experience and commitment to the art helped ensure that the principles of Danzan Ryu Jujitsu would continue to thrive for future generations.
From his years of training, teaching, and real-world experience, Professor Chow-Hoon developed Chow-Hoon Goshin Jitsu, a specialized system rooted in the traditions of Danzan Ryu Jujitsu. The term "Goshin Jitsu" translates to "the art of self-protection," reflecting the system's focus on practical and effective self-defense. While maintaining the core principles and techniques of Danzan Ryu Jujitsu, Chow-Hoon Goshin Jitsu places particular emphasis on realistic defensive applications, situational awareness, and developing the confidence needed to respond effectively under pressure.
Today, our dojo is proud to carry forward the legacy of both Professor Okazaki and Professor Chow-Hoon. Through the study of Chow-Hoon Goshin Jitsu, students gain practical self-defense skills while developing discipline, respect, perseverance, and self-confidence. Whether your goal is personal protection, physical fitness, character development, or lifelong learning, our training provides a welcoming environment where students of all ages can benefit from the timeless principles and proven techniques passed down through generations of dedicated martial artists.
Professor John Chow-Hoon
Founder, Chow-Hoon Goshin Jitsu
Monterey martial arts and practical self-defense training in Japanese JuJutsu, Kempo Karate, Judo, Eskrima / Arnis, and Hawaiian Lua for students from Monterey, Seaside, Marina, Pacific Grove, Salinas, and Monterey County
The ancient Japanese art of close combat — throws, joint locks, pins, and grappling — developed by samurai to defeat armed and armored opponents. The root art from which both Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu descended.
A powerful, direct striking art known for fast, linear techniques and effective close-range combat. Kempo emphasizes body mechanics, conditioning, and realistic self-defense applications.
"The gentle way" — Judo focuses on throws, sweeps, and grappling control, built on the principle of using maximum efficiency with minimum effort. Developed from classical JuJutsu.
The Filipino art of blade and stick fighting. Eskrima trains weapon handling, empty-hand striking, and close-quarters combat with an emphasis on economy of motion and instinctive reaction.
The traditional Hawaiian martial art emphasizing joint locks, strikes, and pressure-point attacks. Lua incorporates the spiritual and cultural elements of Hawaii, promoting balance between mind and body.
Dedicated to preserving and passing on the tradition
Head Instructor
Professor Scott Merrill began his martial arts journey in 1974 under Pete Santos, studying Goju Ryu Karate and Arnis. In 1976, he was introduced to Professor John Chow-Hoon and began training under him at the Pacific Grove Dojo in California. He later served as an assistant instructor under Professor Chow-Hoon.
Following Professor Chow-Hoon's passing, Professor Merrill continued his own training under Prof. James Muro at the Marina Dojo, while also studying with legendary instructors including Prof. Wally Jay (Small Circle JuJitsu), Prof. Willy Cahill (Judo), Prof. Sig Kufferath (Danzan Ryu), and Grand Master Arthur Gonzalez (Tenio's System Of DeCuerdas), among others.
Professor Merrill currently runs the CHJJ school in Monterey, passing on the living tradition established by Professor Chow-Hoon. He holds a Hachidan (8th degree) in Kodenkan Danzan Ryu JuJitsu, Hachidan (8th degree) in Chow-Hoon Goshin Jitsu, Sandan (3rd Dan) in Koshoryu Kenpo, Shodan (1st Dan) in Shorinji Ryu Karate, and Kumu Lua in Lua Halau O Kaihewalu.
Awards — Jujitsu America:
Instructor of the Year: 1994 | Presidential Award: 1984
Black Belt Hall of Fame: 1996 | Prof. Chow-Hoon Memorial Award: 2000
Kempo, Jujutsu, Judo, Eskrima, Hawaiian Lua, and self-defense training at the Monterey Sports Center
Disclaimer: This website represents the Chow-Hoon Goshin Jitsu Monterey Sports Center Club and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or associated with the Monterey Sports Center.
Ages 6 & Up
Wednesday & Friday
Ages 12 & Up
Invitation / Evaluation Required
Wednesday & Friday
Monterey Sports Center
301 E Franklin Street
Monterey, CA 93940
Comfortable workout clothes (gi or athletic wear). No equipment needed for your first class — just bring yourself and be ready to train.
Sign up through the Monterey Sports Center online portal. See the link below to register.
Ready to join? Register through the Monterey Sports Center
Classes are open to all levels. Sign up through the Monterey Sports Center online portal — click the link below to get started.
Register at Monterey Sports Center →https://app.amilia.com/store/en/city-of-monterey/shop/programs/123592
Disclaimer: This website represents the Chow-Hoon Goshin Jitsu Monterey Sports Center Club and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or associated with the Monterey Sports Center.