Interview Cooperation: Traditional Okinawa Gōjū-ryū Karate-dō Federation
Interview and Writing: Yannick Schultze
Translation: Sanae Schultze-Nadoyama

The “TOGKF Hawaii Seminar,” organized by the Traditional Okinawa Gōjū-ryū Karate-dō Federation (TOGKF), was held from April 25th to April 28th, 2024, on the beautiful island of O‘ahu, Hawai‘i. This event was a special seminar commemorating the birth of Miyagi Chōjun and his historic visit to Hawai‘i in 1934. More than just a training event, this gathering served as a heartwarming opportunity for participants to connect with others who share a deep love and dedication to traditional karate. Attendees not only improved their skills but also had the chance to experience the rich culture and heritage of Hawai‘i, much like Miyagi Chōjun did 90 years ago.

Planning and Management

Thomas Krekel, who planned and managed the event together with David Solti and Senior TOGKF members Gene Villa, Joseph Tait and Chris de Wet, spoke about the significance of Miyagi Chōjun‘s historic visit to Hawai‘i in 1934, saying, “Miyagi Chōjun visit to Hawai‘i marks the first recorded instance of Gōjū-ryū Karate-dō being introduced outside of Japan. It is said that he was invited to Hawai‘i to boost the morale of Okinawan immigrants living there at the time. Miyagi was known among them as a strong ‘Okinawan bushi.’” Krekel further explained his motivation, stating, “This history, which connects Okinawan immigrants in Hawai‘i with Miyagi Chōjun, aims to once again honor the culture of Okinawan karate that he left behind and the bond between Hawai‘i and Okinawa. I was entrusted with planning and managing the 90th-anniversary karate seminar for this purpose.”

Hawai’i Seminar Highlights

The seminar took place across various indoor venues, including an event facility (Kokokahi Atherton Hall) with open doors that allowed participants to enjoy Hawaii’s clear air and beautiful island scenery even while training. Attendees experienced one day of beach training, which introduced fresh elements to traditional dōjō practices. This included sessions with the “Kongōken” (an iron ring used in Gōjū-ryū training) and exercises in shallow waters. The seminar’s program covered the entire TOGKF curriculum, with a particular focus on kata such as Sanchin, Tenshō, and the Kaishū Katas Seisan and Seipai, which Miyagi Chōjun is said to have taught during his 1934 visit.

The atmosphere of the seminar at Kokokahi Atherton Hall

(Question and Answer session)

Training scene at Magic Island Lagoon/Ala Moana Beach Park

Exploring Hawaiian Culture with Participants

Krekel shared, “We wanted to celebrate this historic event in Gōjū-ryū karate-dō and honor the achievements of Miyagi Chōjun. There remains a strong bond between Hawai‘i and Okinawa even today. I thought that experiencing Hawaiian culture, just as Miyagi Chōjun did 90 years ago, would be a unique experience for TOGKF members.”

The seminar attracted a multinational group of TOGKF members. Participants came from Okinawa, mainland Japan, New Zealand, Belgium, and various states across the U.S. This diversity brought an international flair to the event, providing participants with opportunities for cultural exchange and learning.

Additionally, the stunning environment of O‘ahu offered a blend of training and family vacation opportunities. Members visited iconic sites such as Pearl Harbor, the Hawaii Okinawa Center, Byōdō-In Temple, and Waikiki. These excursions enriched their stay, deepening their understanding of the cultural ties between Okinawa and Hawai‘i, while making the experience more meaningful for everyone involved. A special thank you goes to Jon Itomura (Executive Director of the Hawaii United Okinawa Association), who was so hospitable and shared many valuable insights during the visit to the Hawaii Okinawa Center.

Hawai‘i Okinawa Center

Instructors Who Excelled at the Seminar

Three top instructors from the TOGKF and students of Higaonna Morio Sensei traveled from Okinawa for the event.

At HQ, Higaonna Sensei with Shihans

From Left to rigth: Uehara Yonekazu Shihan, Kuramoto Masakazu Shihan, Yonesato Yoshinori Shihan.

These instructors shared their extensive knowledge and expertise with the participants, providing a valuable experience for everyone involved. Their dedication and skills contributed to the success of the seminar, leaving both participants and instructors satisfied with their experiences. The instructors’ patience, knowledge, and technical skills enhanced the participants’ foundational understanding and abilities.

Oral Tradition Regarding Kongōken

The Kongōken, an important element in Gōjū-ryū Karate-dō, played a significant role in the seminar’s training sessions. The seminar also discussed the history of the Kongōken. “It is said that Miyagi Chōjun observed Hawaiian wrestlers using tools similar to the Kongōken during their training. According to reports, he might have modified the Kongōken from a circular to an oval shape. Another theory suggests that he saw sailors training with a ring-like device used to secure the ship’s anchor. However, based on photos from that era, it appears that the ring used for the anchor was much thicker.” Training with the Kongōken provided an opportunity to deepen one’s understanding while imagining the practices of that time.

Friendship and Karate

Reflecting on the seminar, Krekel shared, “We were enveloped in a warm welcome and were able to deepen our mutual passion for friendship and traditional karate.” He added, “Throughout the seminar, participants wore smiles on their faces, and it was clear to me that they were happy.” Krekel also expressed his joy, saying, “I am very pleased that we successfully provided training sessions in unique locations, such as beach training, to let everyone experience the beauty of Hawai‘i.”

He continued, “The participants not only diligently completed their training sessions but also enjoyed informal gatherings during their stay in Hawai‘i. I made it a point to create a relaxed environment for discussions about karate, Okinawa, Hawai‘i, and their historical connections during the meals held after training. Thanks to these efforts, the bonds within our community have grown even stronger,” Krekel reminisced.

Plans to Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Miyagi Chōjun‘s Visit

The international seminar held in April 2024 was a success, fostering a deep appreciation for the historical relationship between Gōjū-ryū Karate-dō and Hawaii. Participants improved their techniques, created lasting memories with fellow practitioners, and strengthened the rich cultural connections within karate. As the event concluded, the passion and bonds for traditional karate became evident, reflecting the deep connections formed through this cultural and educational exchange.

Looking to the future, plans to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Miyagi Chōjun‘s visit are already underway, as revealed in this interview. Krekel expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “We want to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Miyagi Chōjun‘s visit. The next event will be even more spectacular definitely!”

Expectations are high among participants for the planned celebration in 2034. A grand event is being organized to honor Miyagi’s achievements and to celebrate the friendship among karate practitioners around the world who are dedicated to Gōjū-ryū Karate-dō. The 100th anniversary celebration will build on the success of the 2024 seminar and strengthen connections within the international karate community.

Photo credit: Morgane Sanglier & Thomas Krekel