This exchange is an enriching and spiritual journey upon which selected students embark. They can witness the rich and diverse culture of Japan and the long history of GojuKai's roots first hand. They have the opportunity to train in some of the oldest dojo's in the world before eventually participating in their grading.

Japan Cultural Exchange 2008

Instructors & leaders:

Headed up by

Hanshi Peter Brandon

Assisted by

Frank Brandon
Craig Kansley
Anton Dorman
Francois Du Plessis

Congratulations to all students that were selected for the 2008 exchange:

Rob Dekenah
Olwethu Gusha
Luyanda Nkondlwana
Kyle Graham
Cheyam Shaked
Ruan Nigrini
Tredoux Nigrini
Matthew Wightman
Dirkie Heydenrych
Utcher Barends
Brigitta Schultz
Eugin Bornman
Christian Schutte
Mari Treurnicht
Lucas Daneel
Pieter van Zyl
Eddie Bruwer
Albi Louw
Michael McGeer
Lloyd Louw
Tiaan Muller
Sarah Van Den Bosch
Kate Astbury

The journey for students taking part in the 2008 Cultural Exchange Tour to the home of karate in Japan commenced many months prior to their departure. The students fortunate to receive formal invitations to grade from the head office of the All Africa Karate-do Goju Kai in South Africa and the International Karate-do Goju Kai Association (IKGA) head quarters in Japan went through intensive training at the Hombu Dojo in Cape Town prior to travelling to Japan.

In the build-up to their departure, students were exposed to traditional Japanese customs as well as training which focused on the strengthening of the mind, body and spirit whilst adhering to the true Goju Kai Karate-do Dojo Kun. The group of students who boarded the plane destined for Tokyo were motivated and confident having prepared themselves for the honour of being able to grade at the Goju Kai head quarters.

In Japan, students trained with Saiko Shihan and Masatoshi Shihan at one of Japan’s oldest Dojos, Kashima Jimboden. On entering Kashima, students are met by the awe-inspiring statues of warriors on either side of the entrance which are the symbolic protectors of the Dojo. These warrior statues were transported to Kashima from Gogen Yamaguchi’s original Dojo and are of historical significance to Goju Kai. The privilege to experience training at Kashima is considered an absolute honour for any karateka.

All students remained focused in their training whilst at Kashima and graded as true karateka’s. We congratulate all students and encourage them to continue upholding the true values of Goju Kai.

After their grading, the students were able to focus on the lighter side of the exchange and much fun was had by all as they were able to experience Japan. Activities included visiting the Kashima Forest, sightseeing in and around Tokyo via the highly efficient Japanese railway. Students visited the fish market and travelled to ancient Kamakura to visit the oldest gardens and Temples in Japan. As part of the evening experiences, students sang karaoke while witnessing the spectacular Tokyo night lights.

The 2008 trip was a great experience, a fantastic journey and a wonderful outcome for the students who successfully graded in Japan.