Rising Stars: Meet Michi Yamato of Torrance

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michi Yamato.

Hi Michi, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey began in Japan, where I trained in martial arts and became part of the stunt team for Japan’s *Super Sentai* series, the original franchise that later became *Power Rangers* in the U.S.

After moving to the United States, I worked in Hollywood as a martial arts and action coordinator on FOX productions including *Masked Rider* and *Big Bad Beetleborgs*, coordinating action for more than 100 episodes. Those experiences taught me discipline, teamwork, timing, safety, and confidence.

I also created and produced *Fujiyama Ichiban*, an original Japanese-style superhero project developed in Los Angeles.

Over time, I wanted to bring those experiences to children, which led me to create Samurai Karate. My goal is not only to teach martial arts, but also to help children build confidence, discipline, respect, and coordination. Our students have competed successfully in Los Angeles karate tournaments, including winning Grand Champion honors.

For me, the most rewarding part is watching children grow from being shy or unsure of themselves into confident, focused individuals. Today, my greatest passion is using martial arts to help children become stronger both physically and mentally.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not always been a smooth road. When I first came to the United States about 35 years ago, I faced challenges with language, cultural differences, and at times, racial discrimination.

But I came to America with a clear dream — to work in martial arts and stunt action, and eventually build my own business. That dream gave me the motivation to keep moving forward.

Every challenge taught me something and made me stronger. Looking back, I feel those experiences helped shape who I am today, both as a martial artist and as a business owner. I learned to adapt, stay positive, and continue working toward my goals, even when the path was difficult.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My main focus today is Samurai Karate, where I teach children confidence, discipline, respect, coordination, and martial arts skills.

What sets my program apart is my background in both martial arts and professional action production. I trained with Japan’s Super Sentai stunt team and later worked as a martial arts and action coordinator on *Masked Rider* and *Big Bad Beetleborgs*. I also created and produced *Fujiyama Ichiban* in Los Angeles.

I am most proud of seeing my students become more confident and focused, both in karate and in everyday life. Some have also earned Grand Champion honors in Los Angeles karate tournaments.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I like best about our city is its diversity. People from many different cultures and backgrounds live here, and there is a real effort to accept and respect those differences.

I also appreciate the sense of compassion and openness I see in the community. Even with so many different perspectives, people often try to understand and support one another.

What I like least is that, like any large and diverse city, there can still be division and misunderstanding. But I believe the city continues to move in a positive direction by becoming more inclusive and connected.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.samuraikaratestudio.com/index.html
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/samurai-karate-for-kids-torrance-2?osq=samurai+karate+for+kids

Image Credits
Samurai Action Studio