Founded in 1967 by Grandmaster Lee, East West Kung Fu schools have served the East Bay for over 50 years. With an instructor staff of over 40 certified World Class Black Belts, East West Kung Fu is the premiere Chinese Martial Arts School in America. East West Kung Fu teaches Martial Arts, Tai Chi and Self-Defense classes for men, women and kids in Alamo, Lafayette and San Ramon, CA.
A ballpark figure for our tuition is between $55 and $60 per week for both youth and adult programs. The exact cost depends on the specific program you choose and any family discounts that may apply. We believe in transparency, which is why we discuss all tuition options with you during your complimentary introductory lesson.
Unlike some schools, we want you to experience our community and instruction firsthand before making any financial commitment. This initial lesson is a private session that allows you to meet our instructors and see our school without any pressure or obligation. Our tuition covers instruction from our staff of over 50 world class instructors, all certified by the International Bok Fu Do Association (IBFDA), and access to a proven martial arts system that has been refined for nearly 60 years. We offer flexible membership options, and our goal is to find a plan that works for you and your family. There are no hidden fees or surprise costs.
Bok Fu Do is a comprehensive Chinese kung fu system that emphasizes fluid, circular movements and practical, modern self-defense. This is different from many Japanese karate styles, which are often known for more linear, sharp, and direct movements. The core principle of Bok Fu Do is use the opponent's force against them and redirect it, rather than meeting it head-on.
This difference is more than just technical; it reflects a distinct philosophy. Our system, which translates to the "System of the White Tiger," was developed by Senior Grandmaster Richard Lee to be a complete art that integrates physical techniques with mindfulness and character development. While karate has a rich history originating from Okinawa, Japan, Bok Fu Do was created as a modern system that blends the most effective elements of several traditional Chinese arts. For students, especially children, the flowing techniques of kung fu can feel more natural and intuitive, providing a path to mastering not just physical movements but also mental focus and calm.
Children can begin our Youth Kung Fu program as early as age 3 ½ years old. We assess every child during their free introductory lesson to ensure they are ready for the classroom environment. While they will learn effective self-defense, the primary benefits our students experience go far beyond the physical techniques. Parents consistently tell us they see a remarkable improvement in their child's focus, discipline, confidence, and respect—often within just a few months of training.
Our curriculum is intentionally designed to build character and instill essential life skills that serve children at school, at home, and throughout their lives. Through the process of learning challenging new skills in a structured and supportive environment, children develop:
• Unshakable Confidence: From mastering a new move or earning their next belt.
• Improved Focus: By concentrating on the detailed movements of their forms.
• Strong Discipline: Through the structured practice and respectful atmosphere of the class.
• Greater Respect: For their instructors, their peers, and themselves.
Absolutely. Safety is our highest priority in every class we teach. All sessions are led by IBFDA-certified instructors who are experts at creating a controlled, supportive, and positive learning environment. We maintain a healthy student-to-instructor ratio to ensure every student receives the attention they need.
Beginners, both children and adults, start with foundational techniques, non-contact drills, and basic forms. This approach ensures that every student builds a strong base of skill, coordination, and confidence at their own pace. Sparring and partner drills are introduced progressively and are always carefully supervised. We teach that the greatest skill is control, and this principle is at the heart of our safety culture. Our goal is not just to prevent injuries, but to build a student's confidence so they feel secure and empowered as they learn.
We have three convenient locations serving families across the East Bay.
You can find us at:
• San Ramon: 2242 Camino Ramon, Suite 101, San Ramon, CA 94583
• Alamo: 3000 Danville Boulevard, Suite N, Alamo, CA 94507
• Lafayette: 3482 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, CA 94549
Our San Ramon school is easily accessible for families in Dublin and Pleasanton. Our Alamo location is just a short drive from Danville, and our Lafayette school serves students from Walnut Creek, Orinda, and Moraga.
The best way to get started is to book a complimentary private introductory lesson at the school nearest you. This is the perfect opportunity for you or your child to experience our program, meet our team, and see our facility with no obligation. You can book your free class by calling the school directly or by filling out the form on our website.
Yes, we offer a complete Tai Chi program at all three of our locations in San Ramon, Alamo, and Lafayette. These classes are ideal for adults of any age, and especially beneficial for seniors, who are seeking to improve balance, reduce stress, increase flexibility, and build strength through gentle, low-impact movements.
Often described as "meditation in motion," Tai Chi is a powerful practice for enhancing overall wellness. Many of our students join to find relief from joint pain, as the slow, deliberate movements are easy on the body while still providing an effective workout. A significant benefit, particularly for older adults, is the proven improvement in balance and core strength, which can dramatically reduce the risk of falls. No prior experience is necessary, and our instructors create a welcoming, calm, and supportive atmosphere for all students.
Our reputation as a world-class martial arts school is built on a foundation of three key pillars: an authentic lineage, unparalleled expertise, and an unwavering commitment to our students' holistic development.
First, we have nearly 60 years of history and a direct lineage to our founder, Senior Grandmaster Richard Lee, who established our first school in 1967. This provides a depth of tradition and a proven system, Bok Fu Do, that you won't find at other schools. Second, our expertise is embodied by our staff of over 50 active instructors, all of whom are certified by the International Bok Fu Do Association (IBFDA). They have dedicated their lives to mastering and teaching this art. Finally, our mission goes beyond teaching kicks and punches; we are committed to "forging champions in life, not just in skill". This focus on building character, confidence, and discipline is what truly sets us apart and creates a positive, life-changing experience for our students.
Join East West Kung Fu and embark on a journey to build strength, confidence, and resilience. Whether you’re looking to improve focus, fitness, or self-discipline, our training programs are designed to help you achieve your goals. Start today and transform your life with the power of Kung Fu.
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