The box office sequel to the beloved 1984 original “Karate Kid,” which took Daniel LaRusso’s karate journey to a whole new level, found just as much success as its predecessor. While the film follows Daniel and Mr. Miyagi to Okinawa, the breathtaking landscapes were actually captured on American soil!
If you’re a “Karate Kid Part II” fan and ever dreamed of reliving those iconic moments, there’s no better way to have an immersive experience than exploring the locations that brought this film to life. Bring magic to the mundane by stepping into the screen and traveling to the sites that served as the backdrop of your favorite scenes.
This guide will map out all the filming locations, what you can expect to see and do there, and provide tips for planning your visit.
Where Was ‘Karate Kid 2’ Filmed?
Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu was selected because of its similar climate to Okinawa and producers were able to hire a large number of Okinawan-born extras. The production also built a very convincing Japanese village set to complete the effect.
Key Scenes: Miyagi-Do scenes, LaRusso house exterior, Okinawan village
Best Time to Visit: April-May or September-October for pleasant weather.
Transportation Options: Numerous flights arrive daily at Honolulu International Airport (HNL). Rental cars are readily available and the best way to explore the island.
The majority of “The Karate Kid Part II” was filmed on the stunning island of Oahu, Hawaii. While the film portrays the tropical paradise of Okinawa, Oahu’s lush landscapes and similar climate provide a perfect stand-in. One of the most recognizable locations is the Miyagi-Do dojo. Scenes featuring Daniel training under Mr. Miyagi were filmed at a private residence located at 421 Lanipo Drive in Kaneohe. Unfortunately, the residence is not open to the public. Fans can, however, visit the beautiful Oahu Valley, which served as the backdrop for the Okinawan village scenes. This scenic location offers hiking trails, cultural demonstrations, and breathtaking views.
The LaRusso house exterior was also filmed at a private residence located at 45-582 Kahuaina Street in Kahuku. Similar to the Miyagi-Do dojo, this location is not publicly accessible. Oahu boasts stunning beaches, rainforests, and iconic landmarks. Pearl Harbor and the Polynesian Cultural Center offer historical and cultural experiences. Helicopter tours give breathtaking aerial views of the island used in the film.
Be respectful of private property when visiting filming locations. Many beaches offer public access and rentals for water activities like surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Fun fact: the iconic Miyagi-Do dojo was actually a private home located in Kahana Valley! The production crew significantly altered its exterior for the movie.
Things To Do In Oahu: Hike the scenic Diamond Head Crater for panoramic island views. Learn to surf at world-famous Waikiki Beach. Explore the Dole Plantation and its pineapple maze.
Where To Eat In Oahu: Enjoy fresh seafood dishes with a view at Waimea Valley Restaurant. Sample the local favorite Loco Moco at Rainbow Drive-In, a favorite spot among the cast and crew during filming.
Where To Stay In Oahu: Experience the luxurious beachfront setting at Turtle Bay Resort. For a more budget-friendly option, check out Waikiki Shore Hostel.
Warner Bros. Burbank Studios, California
The Karate Kid Part II may have showcased the beauty of Hawaii, but some key scenes actually took place much closer to home for many fans – on the iconic Warner Bros. Burbank Studios lot in California.
Key Scenes: While specifics are unknown, interior scenes likely filmed here include those in Sato’s Dojo (Cobra Kai’s training space) and potentially flashbacks to Miyagi’s past.
Best Time to Visit: Southern California boasts a pleasant Mediterranean climate year-round. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer comfortable temperatures and minimal crowds.
Transportation Options: Burbank is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the closest major airport, with shuttle services or ride-sharing options readily available for reaching the studios.
Warner Bros. Studios, Burbank is a sprawling complex that has been a Hollywood mainstay for decades. While most of The Karate Kid Part II wasn’t filmed here, the soundstages offer a glimpse into the magic of filmmaking. Imagine the iconic crane kick being perfected on one of these very stages! Unfortunately, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour doesn’t guarantee seeing the specific soundstages used in The Karate Kid Part II. However, the tour offers an incredible behind-the-scenes look at other legendary sets, props, and costumes used in countless films and TV shows. It’s a must-visit for any movie buff!
Things To Do In Burbank: Pay homage to your favorite celebrities on this iconic tourist attraction, located at the Hollywood walk off fame just a short drive from the studios. You can also hike to the top of Griffith Park for stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood sign.
Where To Eat In Burbank: Burbank offers a wide variety of restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. Consider exploring the trendy restaurants in the Downtown Burbank area or indulging in classic American fare near the studios.
Where To Stay In Burbank: Burbank has numerous hotels and accommodation options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxurious hotels. For a truly immersive experience, some hotels near the studios offer Hollywood-themed rooms or boast connections to the film industry.
A Journey Through Culture
While Daniel-san battled his way through a cultural awakening, the filmmakers cleverly used the Hawaiian island’s lush landscapes and similar climate to create a convincing Okinawan backdrop. So next time you pop in the movie, keep an eye out for those hidden Hawaiian gems – you might just surprise yourself with some tropical trivia the next time you’re at the beach!