The Chapel Hill Quest Center was the first To-Shin Do school to open in North Carolina, and is conveniently located to serve the Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Durham area of the North Carolina Triangle.

Founded in 1998 by Dr. Richard S. Stack, M.D., the school is a unique facility designed by award-winning architect Richard Gurlitz to pay homage the finest dojo training halls in Japan. Dr. Stack is a seventh degree black belt and one of few Master Instructors in Ninjutsu. He is also a personal student of both Stephen K. Hayes and Grand Master Masaaki Hatsumi, with whom he has trained extensively in the United States and in Japan for over 20 years. Dr. Stack eventually chose to pass the school to his own student, W. Hardee Merritt, and it is now known as Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts.

Mr. Merritt, seventh degree black belt in To-Shin Do and Jiu-Jitsu black belt, began training soon after the school’s opening and became one of its primary instructors shortly after. Since he began training, he has introduced our school to an amazing variety of training opportunities including jiu-jitsu, urban/wilderness survival, security tactics, and combat ground fighting. He also pioneered the school’s hugely-successful after-school enrichment and summer programs. The dojo now offers classes and summer camps to pre-school, elementary and middle schools throughout the Triangle area.

Our school offers a dynamic martial arts experience, specializing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and To-Shin Do. Located in a welcoming and inclusive environment, we provide comprehensive training in these two distinct disciplines. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses on ground-based grappling and submissions, emphasizing technique and leverage over strength. To-Shin Do, on the other hand, is a modern self-defense system that blends traditional martial arts with practical tactics for real-world situations.

Our expert instructors are dedicated to fostering a supportive learning environment, where students of all ages and skill levels can grow physically and mentally. Whether you’re looking to improve self-defense skills, increase fitness, or simply enjoy the camaraderie of a martial arts community, our school is the perfect place to embark on your journey. Join us today and discover the art of discipline, respect, and personal growth through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and To-Shin Do.

ABOUT OUR SCHOOL

 

Our school is not like a gym, where individuals train in relative isolation; it is a community. Our instructors and staff work hard to get to know each individual, and work to accommodate the individual needs of our students.