This year’s JKA Malta International Gasshuku took place on the weekend of the 7th to 9th of November 2025, welcoming Sensei Ryosuke Shimizu 6th Dan, straight from JKA Japan Head Quarters.

The Gasshuku was hosted at the San Anton School Gymnasium in Mġarr, bringing together karateka from several other countries and organisations, some of which: Italy, England, Israel, JKA WF Malta, along with our instructors and students from JKA Malta. All of the karateka trained together over an intensive training course lead by Sensei Shimizu, whose presence was highly anticipated.

Friday 7th November: The Gasshuku commenced with Sensei Shimizu highlighting key points in kumite: Distance, timing and confidence. He pointed out that commitment to closing distance to the partner, whilst having awareness to opponents’ response is crucial. To not get lost in just executing your attack and to always expect a reaction, and how to respond back.
Saturday 8th November: JKA Malta Chief Instructor, Sensei Dario Chircop 5th Dan conducted the traditional morning training at the Golden Sands beach. The session was focused on Tai no Sen in kumite and Bassai Sho. It was a beautiful day for beach training in autumn in Malta.
In the afternoon we had our 2nd session of the day with Sensei Shimizu, where the key points were on the jiku ashi (supporting leg), shifting of weight during kicks and perfect timing to initiate and execute a seamless, full kick. A kick must be delivered with explosive impact, even when executed over a block. These were practiced in several different exercises and drills adaptable for all levels, beginner and advanced.
Sunday 9th November: Sensei Shimizu did an overview of kihon basics that are translated into Kata and Kumite. He pointed out the importance of basics to improve precision of technique. We then practiced Sentei Kata to go over important points expected for grading and qualification examination.

At the end of the weekend Dan Grading and License Qualifications were conducted, which were later awarded at the JKA Malta farewell party on Sunday evening.

We would like to show appreciation to our friends from JKA that have travelled to join us this year; to Sensei Roy Tomlin 6th Dan who has been coming to Malta for over 40 years, and to Sensei Ken Hori 6th Dan who has so effectively assisted with translation during the gasshuku.

JKA Malta gratefully acknowledges the contribution of all instructors, participants and supporting families toward this successful turnout. We also extend our gratitude to the organizers of which have dedicated their time and effort to prepare and coordinate a program to be the landmark event of the year.

Our association remains dedicated to the JKA principles of Karate, which serve as the foundation for personal development, discipline and commitment to lifetime practice.

Ultimately, we would like to formally express our gratitude to Sensei Ryosuke Shimizu for his dedicated instructing and feedback throughout the training course. We hope that he has enjoyed his first time in Malta just as much as we have all eagerly trained and observed his teachings.