SKS Senpai's Transformative Experience at the JKA Camps in Japan

Training in Japan at the Japan Karate Association (JKA) camp is a transformative experience for any karateka. For Senpai Dulce, this journey was a dream realized—a chance to train under world-class JKA instructors and immerse in the culture that gave birth to Shotokan karate.

Training alongside 800 Karate practitioners, 3Kyu and above, from around 130 countries, Senpai felt a part of a global community united by their love and respect for karate. The humility, patience, and pursuit of mastery by participants of all ages left a lasting impression. Each day at the JKA camp was a test of endurance and precision. The training heavily emphasized kihon (basics), kata, and kumite (sparring), focusing on powerful stances and precise technique execution.

"The JKA camp was a profound learning experience, but I had mixed feelings about aging before heading to Japan. However, seeing so many people like me from around the world was amazing, and I felt privileged to attend the camp. Yes, I was a bit slower than some of the younger, fitter practitioners preparing for the JKA World Championship, but I felt fortunate to have experienced something unique. I was happy to observe that, for me and others, the spirit of karate has no age barrier. I learned from this journey that the most important thing is to pace myself, always give my best, and consistently show up to practice. Karate goes beyond the dojo—it's a way of life. There was familiarity and comfort, and the experience of training with people from around the world was magical and incomparable. It made me see so clearly that each of us practices karate in our own way, whether old or young, overweight or underweight, unfocused or focused, world-class competitor or little old lady like me; this is a microcosm of life. There was a familiar aspect, yet there were nuances, new details, and new perspectives. In terms of athletic ability, power, and strength, each person was different, with varying levels of readiness and execution. But the spirit of karate was the same, and nothing can truly describe what it is like to participate in such a camp." - Senpai Dulce Bustamante.

Senpai felt incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to visit and train at the historic Hoitsugan Dojo, the private dojo of the late Masatoshi Nakayama Sensei, the founding Chief Instructor of the JKA. The Hoitsugan Dojo and dormitory were set up in 1972 by the late JKA Chief Instructor Nakayama Sensei. The purpose was to create a place to train and stay for people coming to Tokyo worldwide. Takuya Taniyama Sensei and Satoshi Takahashi Sensei led the session. The training was a meticulously structured and physically challenging yet equally fulfilling experience.