Japan / Okinawa

March 17-25, 2010

 

This year’s trip to Japan was another fantastic experience from beginning to end.  After arriving in Tokyo we visited the Korean BBQ then had our first of 2 training sessions at Honbu dojo with Nose Sensei, some of his students and our friends from Austin, Texas.  The next day we had the usual shopping and sightseeing day and then a second training session at Honbu, tuning up for the tournament.

We were up very early the day of the tournament and made our way to a school in Hatogaya City where it was being held in very large gymnasium.  The traffic in the Tokyo area is very heavy and during our days in Tokyo we spent a lot of time in Nose’s van.  By time we finally left Tokyo Nose Sensei must have been very tired of driving. 

The Okinawa Karatedo Gojuryu Shoreikai Tournament was very exciting and very well attended, with an estimated 175 karateka, mostly kids, taking part.  Our North American contingent did very well and we all enjoyed taking part.  Immediately following the tournament we travelled to a local hotel for a wonderful banquet to celebrate a successful tournament.  The food and the company was terrific.

The next day included a much anticipated visit to Nakano dojo.  We had a training session with Iijima Toshio Sensei, Honda Sensei, Ito Sensei, Iijima Sohei Sensei, Nikaido Sensei, Kamei Sensei, Ginoza Sensei and Kako Sensei, broke for a short lunch and then it was examination time.  Harry Sensei successfully tested and was promoted to Rokudan and Ty Sensei and David Sensei (from Austin) were successful in gaining certification in Shorei Kan Canada.  Congratulations to all for a job well done. 

Another early morning the next day as we travelled to Tokyo Haneda Airport for our flight to Okinawa.  Accompanying us were Nose Sensei, Ito Sensei, Ginoza Sensei and Kako Sensei. Upon arrival in Naha City we were met by Ginoza Sensei’s niece, Erie, who served as our translator while we were there.  The next 2 days on Okinawa were an incredible experience of beautiful scenery, impressive attractions, fabulous food and great friendship. 

One of the highlights was a visit with Mrs. Haruko Toguchi, wife of Master Seikichi Toguchi and past president of Shorei Kai Karate.  She was so pleased to host us and Vic Sensei was so thrilled to see her after a number of years.  Another highlight on Okinawa was a visit to the Okinawa dojo in Goya.  This was a great evening of meeting and kata and weapon demonstrations.

After a morning visit to Shuri Castle we departed Okinawa and returned to Tokyo. 

One final evening at the home of Nose Sensei and his wonderful wife, Michio-san, packing and preparing for our return flight the next afternoon.  After a long and uncomfortable flight we arrived back in Vancouver; a little tired…but all of us thinking of when we can return to Japan again.

Many thanks to Nose Sensei, Michio-san, all of the senseis who escorted us in Tokyo and Okinawa.  Thanks to my travelling partners, Steve Sensei, Conrad Sensei and, especially, Vic Sensei and Harry Sensei for their patient training and Vic Sensei (once again) for his organization of the trip.

Jack Matches Sensei