1. Purpose of the Event
The Demonstration Event is held to showcase the techniques of Okinawa karate and its spirit as a martial art of peace, while also promoting the worldwide spread of Okinawa karate and sharing it as a traditional culture that Okinawa takes pride in.
- Promotion of International Exchange
We will create a valuable opportunity for karate practitioners from around the world to gather in Okinawa, the birthplace of karate, fostering deeper connections through both the techniques and spirit of Okinawa karate. - Showcasing Techniques and Spirit
We will provide the finest stage to present the traditional techniques of each style—systematized in Okinawa by our predecessors and passed down to the present day—and to share with the world the profound spirit that lies at their core. - Preservation, Succession, and Further Development
By encouraging the proper preservation and continuation of Okinawa karate and fostering its future growth, we will showcase kata and performances that highlight the unique characteristics of each Okinawa traditional karate and kobudo style and school. Additionally, by demonstrating karate and kobudo kata that have spread from Okinawa to the world, we will strongly disseminate karate, Okinawa’s world-class traditional culture, and lead to further development.
2. Event Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | The 3rd Okinawa Karate World Tournament OKINAWAKARATE WORLD FESTIVAL ～DEMONSTRATION and TOURNAMENT～ |
| Demonstration Event Date | “Sunday, August 2, 2026 13:00–15:30″ |
| Venue | Okinawa Convention Center |
| Organizers | Okinawa Karate World Tournament Executive Committee, Okinawa Prefecture, Okinawa Dento Karatedo Shinkokai |
3. Application Details
(1) Eligibility Requirements
- Applicants must be 15 years of age or older as of April 1, 2026.
- Applicants must belong to a karate dojo or organization with roots in Okinawa. (Information such as the name of the organization/dojo, head instructor, and style will be required.)
(2) Participation Fee
Free of charge
(3) Structure of the Demonstration Event
- The Demonstration Event is planned to consist of approximately 40 performances in total.
- At the time of application, applicants may select up to three preferred demonstration categories from first to third choice.
- However, participation eligibility and performance assignments will be determined through the selection process described in Section 5 below.
| Section | Contents | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Part 1 Demonstrations of Okinawa Karate (Okinawa Traditional Karate and Kobudo) |
Okinawa karate and kobudo kata demonstrations will be presented, highlighting the unique characteristics of each style and school that has inherited the traditional techniques cultivated in Okinawa. | Individual and group participation allowed. (Performers will be selected based on the selection criteria.) *Special note: Priority will be given to group participation. For individual applicants, grouping measures may be taken. |
| Part 2 Demonstrations of Karate and Kobudo that have spread throughout the world |
Participants from countries and regions around the world, originating from Okinawa, will demonstrate karate kata and traditional martial arts forms. | Individual and group participation allowed. (Performers will be selected based on the selection criteria.) *Special note: Priority will be given to participants holding dan ranks. |
4. Application Method
(1) Application Procedure
Please access the official tournament website below and accurately enter the required information in the application form.
[Official website] https://okinawa-karate.okinawa/en
1. Registration of Personal Information for the Representative Applicant and Participants
* Information such as the organization/dojo name, head instructor, style, and dan rank is required.
2. Registration of Participation Details
*Applicants may select up to three preferred demonstration categories from first to third choice.
(2) Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted no later than 23:59 (JST) on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
5. Selection Process
While the Demonstration Event is planned to consist of approximately 40 performances in total, due to venue capacity and other constraints, it may not be possible to accommodate all applicant preferences. Therefore, a rigorous selection process will be conducted by the Demonstration Division established under the Okinawa Karate World Tournament Executive Committee. To ensure transparency in the selection process, the selection policy is set forth below.
Selection Policy
- Selection Body
Participant selection will be carried out by the Demonstration Division of the Okinawa Karate World Tournament Executive Committee. - Selection Criteria
Selection will be based on a comprehensive evaluation of the following points:- Accuracy of Okinawa karate techniques and preservation of tradition
- Expression of the characteristics of the applicant’s style or school
- Contribution to international exchange
- Overall balance and diversity within the Demonstration Event program
For Part 2, in addition to the above, the selection will take into consideration group demonstrations to allow participation by as many karate practitioners as possible.
- Notification of Results
Results of the selection will be promptly notified to the representative applicant after the application period has closed.
6. Other Important Notes
- Submitting an application does not guarantee participation. Please note that final participants will be determined through the selection process conducted by the Demonstration Division.
- All expenses related to transportation, accommodation, and other personal costs shall be borne by the participants.
- Due to the overall structure of the Demonstration Event program, adjustments to performance order or time allocation may be requested by the Secretariat. Your cooperation is highly appreciated.
- Any matters not specified in these guidelines shall be subject to the decisions of the Demonstration Division of the Okinawa Karate World Tournament Executive Committee.
Inquiries Regarding Application for Participation
Okinawa Karate World Tournament Operations Support Team (within Okinawa JTB Corporation, Sales Department)
Phone: 090-8938-8343
Email: okinawa-karate@okw.jtb.jp
Office Hours: Weekdays 9:30–17:00 (Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays)
Inquiries Regarding the Tournament in General
Okinawa Karate World Tournament Executive Committee Secretariat (Karate Promotion Division, Department of Culture, Tourism and Sports, Okinawa Prefectural Government)
Phone: 098-866-2232
Email: aa082500@pref.okinawa.lg.jp
Office Hours: Weekdays 9:00–17:00 (Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays)