2025 Seiwakai in Daisen and JKF Gojukai in Sendai – Seminars & Competition

By Johnpaul Williams – Seiwakai Karate Silicon Valley Gojūkan

Our Menlo Park travelers returned from the annual summer expedition to Japan! We participated in the weeklong seminar in the Omagari Daisen region of Akita and continued onward to Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, for the JKF Gojukai seminar and national competition.

Seiwakai Annual International Gasshuku – July 16–21, 2025

2025 Seiwakai members in Omagari Daisen Japan

Day One July 16 – Seiwakai Annual International Gasshuku

The seminar in Omagari Daisen began with great fanfare. Fujiwara Seiichi Shuseki Shihan led operations, assisted by Takahashi Satoru. Daily training blended Kihon (basic techniques) and advanced Kata, tailored to each participant’s grade, age, and level. As the week progressed, the intensity increased, pushing members to rise to Seiwakai’s high technical standard, all while maintaining safety—we’re happy to report no cases of heat exhaustion.

After the second session, Seiwakai members were treated to a special display of Daisen Hanabi (Fireworks) held outside the Hanabium (Omagari Hanabil Museum). Though the brief show did not coincide with the city’s major Hanabi festival, it was heartfelt gesture of Japan sincerity and hospitality.

Omagari is legendary for their fireworks display, being the 3rd largest annual fireworks event in Japan. The annual Hanabi festival of Omagari has been held since 1900 and the town is very proud if this, having embedded Hanabi images in nearly everything including their town logo.

Day Two July 17 – Seiwakai Annual International Gasshuku

We were formally welcomed by Mayor Hiroyuki Oimatsu of Daisen, his committee, and the local press during the second session of the day. Their presence was not ceremonial, but a sign of mutual respect, gratitude for Fujiwara Sensei’s leadership, and acknowledgment of the positive economic impact brought by international participation.

Each member was gifted a ¥1000 station shop voucher and a cloth tote bag—perfect for carrying souvenirs while making it clear we were proud and welcomed visitors.

Kei car life with our Nissan in Omagari Daisen

Day Three July 18 – Seiwakai Annual International Gasshuku

After navigating by taxi and rideshare earlier in the week, we followed the example of our Australian hotelmates and rented a Kei car—a practical move for tired legs and wallets alike. While navigating Japan requires an international driver’s license and focus, the countryside roads of Daisen made it a manageable and scenic experience.

Turns out you do need an international driver’s license to rent a car in Japan, and a lot of great training and no accidents really does help. Luckily, my commercial-grade training, backed up by my early-life road training with the CHP, assisted, and we easily survived the tiny-car experience. Believe it or not, I easily fit in the vehicle with plenty of legroom; however, I can guarantee that absolutely no one could ride in the seat behind me, and the remainder of the back seat was easily occupied by my do-gi.

To my surprise, I fit comfortably in the compact vehicle (though I don’t recommend anyone sit behind me). The backseat was quickly filled by my dōgi and gear, making this an ideal setup for solo or duo travelers—not groups.

Day Four July 19 – Seiwakai Annual International Gasshuku

Day Four of the Seiwakai Annual International Gasshuku saw a change of scenery and a welcome break from the intense training schedule. After a day of rest and relaxation on Saturday, July 19th, the group reconvened for training on Sunday, July 20th, at the Kamioka Gymnasium in Daisen. This shift was necessitated by the national election committee using the Omagari Budokan and gymnasium.

The Kamioka Gymnasium provided a unique opportunity for local members, particularly juniors and those preparing for the upcoming JKF Gojukai national competition. They were able to demonstrate their kata before Fujiwara Shuseki Shihan and the international contingent, showcasing their skills and dedication.

Day Five July 20 – Seiwakai Annual International Gasshuku

The group returned to Kamioka, by this point, attendees felt the deep burn of training. There is something about exhaustive training in that it teaches the Karate player to relax and reserve their energy, saving it to release for explosive techniques. The fatigue gave way to wisdom: as any seasoned Karateka knows, economy of motion and relaxation precede explosive power. This is a long tried and true discipline of training, crucial for those preparing for the Seiwakai Shinsa (testing) the next day.

That morning, Fujiwara Shihan reviewed and lectured on Reishiki 礼式 (proper etiquette) and seiza 正座 (formal seated posture) and Zarie (seated bowing). He continued with Karatedo being a Budo, emphasizing that manners, respect and humility are not add-ons, but the foundation of Karate-dō as a martial way and the ultimate goal of the art. He stressed and urged at all participating international Sensei to impart these lessons home, their dojo and community to their students.

This emphasis on etiquette and respect highlights the cultural and philosophical depth of Karatedo beyond its physical techniques, reinforcing its role as a path for personal development and community building.

Day Six July 21 – Shinsa (Testing Day) – Seiwakai Annual International Gasshuku

Returning to the familiar Omagari Budōkan 大曲武道館, there was a palpable mix of ease and anticipation among participants. The smooth, well-equilibrated floor—far more forgiving than the slightly sticky surface at the Kamioka facility—allowed everyone to move more freely and focus on their final day of training and testing. This change in environment set a positive tone, enabling practitioners to channel their energy into the culmination of the week’s efforts.

The final day traditionally marks the Shinsa 審査 (testing) period for many attendees. I was exempt this year, having successfully earned my Seiwakai Gōjū-Ryū Karatedō 誠和会剛柔流空手道 7th Dan 七段 the previous summer in 2024. At that time, I was unknowingly contending with a torn MCL and a 25 mm cyst on my meniscus—issues beyond the chronic knee problems I was already aware of. Despite the pain, I persevered through the grading and achieved a positive result. With hindsight and a greater awareness of my condition now, I believe I could have delivered an even stronger performance. Nevertheless, I remain grateful for both the opportunity and the outcome.

The evening following the grading was celebrated with the annual Seiwakai International Enkai 宴会—a cherished tradition featuring a banquet-style meal, drinks, and lively conversation. As in the previous year, entertainment was provided by “Japan’s Number One Magician,” whose blend of comedy and sleight of hand once again left the room filled with laughter and amazement. His act, both humorous and delightfully cliché, ensured that every attendee departed with a smile, even if still puzzled by his tricks.

After the Enkai, some members returned to their lodgings to prepare for departure, while others continued on to Nijikai 二次会 (afterparty) at one of the many local karaoke establishments. I participated only briefly, abstaining from alcohol as I had driven to the venue. For me, safety always takes precedence—especially when navigating on the opposite side of the road from what I am accustomed to—so it was a sober and uneventful end to the night.

The next morning was devoted to returning the rental car and boarding the Shinkansen 新幹線 from Omagari Station 大曲駅 to Sendai Station 仙台駅, where we planned to secure another vehicle and reunite with our JKF Gōjūkai 日本空手道連盟剛柔会 family for the next stage of our journey.

Transition to Sendai – July 22, 2025

Rental car returned, bags repacked, we boarded the Shinkansen from Omagari to Sendai—ready to join our JKF Gojukai family.

JKF Gojukai Seminar & Taikai – July 22–25, 2025

2025 JKF Gojukai Gasshuku in Sendai Japan

Day One – July 22: The JKF Gojukai Seminar Begins

Anticipation, anticipation, anticipation. As the butterflies begin to settle, we take our positions on the floor. The front row quickly fills with senior members and those eager—perhaps even a little anxious—to be noticed by the executive committee. I assume my usual place in the front-right corner, a position chosen deliberately: it affords a clear line of sight for others, while also allowing me to hear instructions more easily. Few know that I have a minor hearing loss, a lasting souvenir from years in the entertainment industry, much like the late Paul Coleman.

International members begin collecting various pre-ordered items—club memberships, competition bibs, and other necessities for the seminar. We have arrived in Sendai for the JKF Gōjūkai 日本空手道連盟剛柔会 summer seminar, and the floor is alive with anticipation.

A small logistical hiccup arises: my competition number, 690, is missing. Fortunately, Kato Kei 加藤恵, a student of Fujiwara, is assisting the foreign delegation with admirable diligence. After confirming my name in both the ledger and program book, he assures me that the bib has indeed been printed. Eventually, it turns up—unexpectedly in the possession of our Seiwakai 誠和会 colleagues from Portugal.

Meanwhile, senior 8th Dan 八段 candidates move with quiet focus, making their final preparations before testing—a visible reminder of the gravity and prestige of this event.

2025 Gojukai Shinsa Applicants preparing for the 8th Dan grading

Day Two – July 23: JKF Gojukai Dan Testing

After the morning practice session, approximately one-third of the participants remained for Shinsa 審査 (testing), while the others were released to relax or explore the city of Sendai 仙台.

It is worth noting—both in keeping with tradition and as a reflection of the formidable standards of the JKF Gōjūkai 日本空手道連盟剛柔会—that the pass rates for advanced gradings are exceptionally strict:

• Only 10% of those attempting the grade will pass the 8th Dan succeed
• Only 20% of those attempting the grade will pass the 7th Dan succeed
• Only 30% of those attempting the grade will pass the 6th Dan succeed
• Only 40% of those attempting the grade will pass the 5th Dan succeed
• Only 50% of those attempting the grade will pass the 6th Dan succeed
• Only 60% of those attempting the grade will pass the 4th Dan succeed
• Only 70% of those attempting the grade will pass the 3rd Dan succeed
• Only 80% of those attempting the grade will pass he 2nd Dan succeed
• Only 90% of those attempting the grade will pass the 1st Dan succeed

2025 JKF Gojukai Enkai: Takegawa Tatsuo Sensei, Ramon Veras Sensei and the author JP Williams

The evening concluded with the 2025 JKF Gōjūkai Enkai 宴会, held at a venue near Sendai Station 仙台駅. This post-event banquet is both a tradition and a privilege, offering attendees the rare opportunity to mingle directly with senior JKF Gōjūkai staff and the executive board.

At our table, we were fortunate to be seated with Hoto Masumi 保登真澄 Sensei, whom I had not previously met. To my surprise, she not only speaks fluent English but also holds a Ph.D. from the University of Colorado, with a familiarity and fondness for the Stanford and Menlo Park communities.

Hoto Sensei graciously introduced us to Yamakage Emiko 山蔭恵美子 Sensei, the only female 8th Dan 八段 in the JKF Gōjūkai. She is a technical examiner as well as a World Karate Federation (WKF) and Asian Karate Federation (AKF) referee. Her warmth, leadership, and remarkable presence were deeply inspiring. Shiho Williams Sensei enjoyed a wonderful conversation with her, and we both look forward to the possibility of meeting with Yamakage Sensei and Hoto Sensei again in the near future.

Day Three – July 24: Competition Day 1

2025 JKF Gojukai Taikai from the stadium upper level seats

The first day of competition. There are not as many competitors as last year in Okinawa, for obvious reasons having been the 50th JKF Gojukai Taikai, however the spirit and enthusiasm is alive and well. Upon check-in I found that my bib (competitors number) is still missing however a few hours later I’ve been notified that Seiwakai members from Portugal have taken deliver care of Kato Kei, and I’ll retrieve them later in the evening.

There was a special Seiwakai Enkai arranged for the evening by Fujiwara Seiichi in the at Izakaya Mimasu-Mitsukura at Shin Tohoku building near the train station in the evening of which many attended. Unfortunately Fujiwara Sensei was exhausted from the events of the past two weeks and saved his energy for the final day of the event of which he is one of the primary organizers.

Day Four – July 25: Competition Day 2

On the final day of the JKF Gojukai competition, I competed in the Men’s Over-50 Kata Division. Competing in a crowded and highly contested group of 29, I tied for 7th place. However, during the tiebreaker, I was bumped down to 9th, thereby missing the final stage of the top eight by one spot again (see 2023).

JKF Gojukai Mens over 50 Rankings at the 51st Taikai in Sendai Japan 2025

Despite not appearing in the finals or on the final stage, I will return next year. 2026 will mark 25 years since I placed in the top 8 in Kumite in 2001. My recovering and recurring knee injury is not enough to hold me back. I must set an example for my club and students and set a precedent displaying that no matter the age, there is more to life than being sidelined by the number of years one has lived and circled the sun. Remaining active regardless of age or injury is a lifetime goal.

Regardless of my personal goals, I felt deep pride as many Seiwakai members from around the world (particularly Australia) placed in the top eight of several divisions, including my own group. Stacey Karetsian from Australia bested us all, including the Japan based JKF Gojukai participants, taking 1st place.

Additionally, three USA members from the JKF Gojukai group OGKK in Texas placed in the top eight of their divisions. They are the first Americans to have done so since 2001. This is a huge and memorable honor that displays the true passion and tenacity of the participants who traveled a half world away and did not return home empty-handed.

Final Reflection

As I’ve said before, and will say again: the world is changing—don’t blink. We’ll be back in 2026. Until then…

– Johnpaul Williams
Director, Seiwakai Karate Silicon Valley Gojūkan
誠和会空手シリコン谷・指導者
+1-650-394-6669 (text only for SKSV)