Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Travel Guide

If you are involved in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, whether someone trains with a Gracie, Machado, or Barreto, chances are you’ve had to travel. Travel to events, training, expos, or just for fun. There’s a few cities that would be paramount to visit for a BJJ globetrotter.

Starting with the Mecca city for a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is where it all began. BJJ legends make their home in the sprawling metropolis. Add in some training with a lively nightlife, steeped in the history and culture of Brazil and the Amazon, and it makes for a fantastic retreat.

A few cities new to the BJJ life, but still noteworthy to visit, are New York City, New York, and London, United Kingdom. Both are bustling hubs of culture and diversity, each with their own twist on the BJJ revolution. Some notable BJJ belt holders have schools in both cities, coupling the ability to train alongside legends as well as enjoy the culture each city has to offer.

Another must-add city to any BJJ globetrotting extravaganza would be Tokyo, Japan. Jiu Jitsu originated in the Asian city. Their culture is the root of most martial arts. Though Tokyo is thoroughly modern, there is still antiquity and culture to explore. From the best that martial arts could offer to karaoke, Tokyo is a city full of fun and adventure.

Heading back to the States, San Diego, California is next on the map. It is the center of the BJJ revolution, the modern holy city for everything BJJ. Practitioners from across the globe gather to train, re-train, and spar. Here, the most cutting-edge part of the BJJ style is born daily. Take a visit to the Clark Gracie Academy, or just enjoy some time on the beach or in the water.

Head back across the ocean to visit Phuket, Thailand. It’s the Southeast Asian capital for all things BJJ. With the influx of many MMA schools, Phuket has sparring or training in-pocket for those going simply for BJJ. Travelers with a vacation mind-set can enjoy the beaches as well as getting some training in.

These are just a few of the many cities with thriving BJJ cultures. Whether someone is new to the BJJ scene, or have been practicing for awhile, travel is paramount. It’s also fun, educational, and interesting.