California Welcomes the Judo Nomad

A Journey of Connection Through Judo

For Julien Brulard, known around the world as The Judo Nomad, every dojo is an opportunity to learn, share, and build friendships. His United States tour began right here in California, with CJ Judo in San Jose serving as his first stop.

The venture was organized by Jonathan Cotte of Griffin Judo, whose efforts helped bring Julien to the United States and connect him with the Bay Area judo community.

One Mission, a World of Dojos

A French judo coach, Julien began The Judo Nomad project in 2021 with an ambitious goal: travel to all 197 countries, sharing his knowledge and connecting people through judo. He teaches without charging for his instruction, relying on donations, sponsors, and the hospitality of the communities he visits to keep the journey moving. Whenever possible, he travels overland or by sea to limit flying.

His background includes years of training in France and Japan, a master’s degree in sport science, and experience teaching everyone from beginners to national team athletes. But the heart of his project is something every judoka can appreciate: the ability to walk into an unfamiliar dojo and find a community through a shared love of judo.

A California Welcome

Following the opening visit to CJ Judo, Jonathan helped guide Julien around the Bay Area, with stops including Kensei Judo, San Jose State University, San Francisco Judo Institute, UC Berkeley, and Griffin Judo.

Bringing a visitor into several clubs takes coordination, time, and a willingness to bring people together. Jonathan’s work made it possible for multiple judo communities to be part of this chapter of Julien’s journey.

These exchanges give students and instructors an opportunity to see judo through another coach’s perspective. They also remind us that our local dojos belong to something much larger—a worldwide community connected by shared practice, respect, and a willingness to learn from one another.

Julien then headed south to Los Angeles, where his visits included Tenri Judo, LA Judo, and other area clubs. After traveling through California, he continued his American adventure in Texas, carrying the project into another part of the country.

Bringing the Judo Community Together

At Judo United, we believe that events and experiences can strengthen the connections between clubs and help our sport grow. The Judo Nomad’s visit reflects that belief in a very practical way: open the dojo doors, share what you know, and make room for new friendships.

For younger judoka especially, meeting someone who has built a life around teaching and traveling offers a different view of where judo can take them. Competition is one part of the journey. Coaching, cultural exchange, and friendships across borders are others.

A special thank-you goes to Jonathan Cotte and Griffin Judo for organizing this opportunity, and to all the clubs that welcomed Julien along the way.

Thank you, Julien, for making California part of your journey. We look forward to following the next chapter!

To learn more about The Judo Nomad, follow his travels, or support the project, visit thejudonomad.com.