Karate’s heritage finds its new cradle with the opening of the “Okinawa Karate Kaikan”. Located at the birthplace of the sport, the Okinawa Karate Kaikan rises to preserve Karate’s tradition and to showcase the essence of the ancient discipline.

Karate’s heritage finds its new home at the “Okinawa Karate Kaikan”. Located in the birthplace of the sport, the Okinawa Karate Kaikan rises to preserve Karate’s tradition and to showcase the essence of the ancient discipline. The imposing Hall of Fame was inaugurated on Saturday in a time-honoured ceremony that displayed Karate’s impact in society as well as its imposing legacy.

The unveiling of the “kaikan”, or hall, took place in the city of Tomigusuku, where the new facilities are situated. The ceremony was attended by over a thousand guests, and it was headed by Okinawa Governor Takeshi Onaga. WKF General Secretary Toshihisa Nagura transmitted WKF President Antonio Espinós’ good wishes for the new destination for Karate practitioners around the world. During the event, a Kata demonstration was performed featuring Okinawa-born and 2016 World champions Ryo Kiyuna, Arata Kinjo, and Takuya Uemura.

The Okinawa Karate Kaikan aims to preserve and develop Karate’s tradition while also celebrating the unique cultural heritage of the sport. The hall also intends to become a hub where karatekas can learn the essence of the discipline in the idyllic enclave where Karate was originated.