Esaki Jiu-Jitsu Academy

8.6
4353 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766
Perfect for:
Serious BJJ PractitionersFamilies
Opens tomorrow at 9
Esaki Jiu-Jitsu Academy interior

About

Esaki Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Lihue, Hawaii, stands out as a premier training facility under the leadership of Professor Evan Esaki and Professor Ian Delizo, both black belts under the Mendes Brothers. The academy offers a comprehensive training program with both Gi and No-Gi classes, structured programs for kids and adults, and maintains high technical standards while fostering a welcoming environment. The facility has earned a reputation for its meticulous attention to cleanliness and its ability to balance competitive training with a family-friendly atmosphere.

Jiu Jitsu Near Me VerifiedJiu Jitsu Verified
8.59/10

Our weighted 10-point scoring system for martial arts academies prioritizes instruction quality, training environment, and overall student experience.

We consider factors like instructor expertise, class structure, and facility quality. Our assessment combines student feedback, expert reviews, and website information.

Scores above 9.00 denote world-class quality, signifying premier martial arts training experiences.

Overall Vibe imageOverall Vibe
9.3517 reviews
Instructor imageInstructors Quality
9.5317 reviews
Class Structure imageClasses
8.9111 reviews
Facility Quality imageFacility Quality
8.5014 reviews
Value for Money imagePricing
6.001 reviews
Location and Accessibility imageLocation & Accessibility
9.254 reviews

Public Review Sentiment

Google
Based on 23 Google Reviews
The academy consistently receives high praise from visitors and locals alike, with particular emphasis on the welcoming atmosphere and high-quality instruction.
Last Updated 18 May 2025

Instructors

Professors Evan Esaki and Ian Delizo are highly respected black belts under the Mendes Brothers, known for their detailed instruction and ability to connect with students of all levels. Their teaching approach combines technical precision with practical application, making complex concepts accessible to all skill levels.

Facility

The academy features clean Fuji mats and maintains high standards of cleanliness with daily mat cleaning. The training space is well-organized and properly maintained for optimal training conditions.

Pricing

While specific pricing information is not publicly available, the academy appears to offer comprehensive training programs for various age groups and skill levels. The value proposition seems strong based on the quality of instruction and facility maintenance.

Facility

Spotless and PristineEnough spaceFuji MatsChanging AreasMat Cleaning Supplies

Gym

Mixed AtmosphereWelcoming VibeExcellent Safety

Instructors

Mendes Brothers Black BeltsTechnical ExpertsCompetition ExperienceKid-Friendly

Classes

GiNo-GiCompetitionAdvancedOpen matKids ClassesAdult friendly

Pricing

Good ValueFree trialUnclear Pricing

While not explicitly stated, the academy appears welcoming to new students who want to try classes.

Location

Ample ParkingGood Accessibility

Opening Hours

Opens tomorrow at 9
Monday 9 - 10:30AM, 3 - 8PM
Tuesday 9 - 10:30AM, 3 - 8PM
Wednesday 9 - 10:30AM, 3 - 8PM
Thursday (Today)9 - 10:30AM, 3 - 8PM
Friday 9 - 10:30AM, 3 - 8PM
Saturday 9 - 11AM
Sunday Closed

Location

Located in Lihue, Hawaii, the academy is accessible to both locals and visitors to Kauai.

Address

4353 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766

Website

https://esakijiujitsu.com/

Phone

1 808-631-0980

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear to train at Esaki Jiu-Jitsu Academy?

For Gi classes, all white Gi uniforms are required. For No-Gi, wear rashguard material tops and non-tight, MMA/No-Gi-specific shorts. Spats/leggings are recommended.

Are drop-ins welcome at the academy?

Yes, the academy is very welcoming to visitors and drop-ins, with many positive reviews from traveling practitioners.

What age groups are accepted for kids' classes?

Kids' classes are divided into two age groups: 4-7 years old and 8-13 years old, with both Gi and No-Gi options available.