JKA Shotokan Ireland held their traditional Winter Gasshuku on 8-9 November 2025, hosting its Chief Instructor, Kawasoe Masao Sensei, 8th Dan JKA for the 35th year in a training camp held across the Hombu Dojo and University College Dublin venues.

Training brought together karateka from across Ireland, Northern Ireland and England, along with a number of guests from non-JKA clubs who were eager to train with Kawasoe Sensei, many for the first time.

In the first class of the weekend, Kawasoe Sensei focused on a series of basic drills designed to generate speed and power by dropping weight into each technique, emphasising the importance of body timing in the delivery of fast and effective punches. These principles were then used in kumite drills to connect defence and counterattack.

The second class featured a deep-dive on the kata Bassai Sho, focusing on key combinations within the kata and exploring possible applications. Kawasoe Sensei also emphasised the importance of training fundamental stances and kihon for all grades, from beginner right through to the most senior attendees. There was a particular focus on kicking techniques, for which Kawasoe Sensei is renowned.

The senior segment on the second day included an examination of key sequences across the katas Jitte, Empi, Kanku-dai and Gojushiho-sho.

As always, it was great to get everyone together from regulars, guests and visitors and toast to our continued karate journeys at dinner! JKA Shotokan Ireland is already looking forward to Kawasoe Sensei’s next visit, in Spring 2026.