- George Chung
- Apr 17, 2024
- 2 min read
The Martial Arts History Museum, the world's first and only of its kind, has triumphantly reopened its doors in a new, significantly larger locale within Glendale, CA.
Following its closure in late 2023, the museum welcomed visitors once more on April 6, 2024, unveiling a spacious facility four times the size of its former home in Burbank.
Photo credit: Mario Prado
Enthusiasts of martial arts and museum aficionados alike reveled in the captivating timelines adorning the walls across various sections of the new venue.
Photo credit: Mario Prado
Representing destinations such as China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, African countries, and even Hawaii, the museum offered a comprehensive exploration of the art's global heritage.
Photo credit: Mario Prado
Notable pioneers like Ernie Reyes, Gene LeBell, Tino Tuiolosega, Fumio Demura, Bill Ryusaki, Richard Bustillo, Tak Kubota, Cynthia Rothrock, George Chung, Ralph Castro, and others are honored with their uniforms displayed along the museum's walls.
Photo credit: Black Belt Magazine
Legendary fight champions like Graciela Casillas and Lilly Rodriguez are prominently featured with representation and acknowledgment of the great female martial artists in history.
Photo credit: Black Belt Magazine
Michael Matsuda, the museum's president and founder, led the charge in transitioning to the expansive new setting and personally crafted its design. "This marks our 25th year of the museum. My vision remained steadfast throughout, and now we've taken a monumental leap into a new realm. I'm eager to continue pushing boundaries," remarks Matsuda. "I view this as a significant milestone towards an even grander future."
Photo credit: Mario Prado
The museum serves as an educational hub, shedding light on diverse cultures and the distinctive roles martial arts have played in each nation's evolution. Notable enhancements include the addition of a museum theater capable of accommodating over 100 attendees.
Photo credit: Mario Prado
As a nonprofit charitable organization, the museum welcomes donations and grants to support its mission.
For more details, visit MAmuseum.com
