BJJ Gyms in Sendai, Japan

Carpe Diem Sendai is the first Tohoku region branch of Carpe Diem Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, one of Japan's largest BJJ organizations with over 18 locations domestically and 7 internationally. The gym opened in autumn 2021 in the Itsutsubashi district of Aoba Ward, Sendai City. "Carpe Diem" is Latin for "Seize the Day," embodying the philosophy that everyone should live in the present moment through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Located just 6 minutes on foot from Itsutsubashi Station on the Sendai subway Nanboku Line in the heart of Sendai's city center, the gym offers convenient access for students, working professionals, and families. The facility features dedicated parking for 4 vehicles, making it accessible for members throughout the Miyagi prefecture. Head instructor and gym representative Kazuki Watanabe is a black belt with an impressive competition record including multiple JBJJF All-Japan Championships and IBJJF tournament victories. Originally from Fukushima, Watanabe discovered BJJ in 2010 and eventually joined the prestigious Carpe Diem headquarters in Tokyo, transitioning from professional photographer to full-time instructor and competitor before opening the Sendai branch in 2021. The coaching team includes brown belt instructors Rei Nagao, Yuto Sugawara, and Toi Sato, all accomplished competitors with national championship titles. Carpe Diem Sendai is affiliated with JBJJF (Japan Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) and IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation). The facility offers separate changing rooms and showers for men and women, along with keeping locker services where staff wash and store members' gis, enabling "hands-free" training for busy professionals.