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TAKESHI CUP 2026 -Sri Lanka

TAKESHI CUP-2026 SRI LANKA

SOKE TAKESHI KITAGAWA CUP 2026 – A Grand Celebration of Authentic Shotokan Karate

The global Karate fraternity is set to witness a landmark event as SOKE TAKESHI KITAGAWA CUP 2026 takes place on 1st April 2026 at the Albert F. Peiris Indoor Stadium, Wennappuwa, Sri Lanka. This prestigious championship stands as a tribute to authentic Japanese Shotokan Karate-Do and the timeless values of Budo—discipline, respect, and perseverance.

 

Organised under the direct lineage of Nihon Shotokan Karate-Do SANKUKAI, the event reflects the vision and teachings of Soke Takeshi Kitagawa, one of the most respected senior masters of traditional Shotokan Karate.  This Event is administratered by Sensei R Deva Kumar, who is going to be Sri Lanka Representative  for the year 2026.

the global Karate fraternity is set to witness a landmark event as SOKE TAKESHI KITAGAWA CUP 2026 takes place on 1st April 2026 at the Albert F. Peiris Indoor Stadium, Wennappuwa, Sri Lanka. This prestigious championship stands as a tribute to authentic Japanese Shotokan Karate-Do and the timeless values of Budo—discipline, respect, and perseverance.

Organised under the direct lineage of Nihon Shotokan Karate-Do SANKUKAI, the event reflects the vision and teachings of Soke Takeshi Kitagawa, one of the most respected senior masters of traditional Shotokan Karate.

Honouring the Legacy of Soke Takeshi Kitagawa

Soke Takeshi Kitagawa is internationally revered for preserving the purity of Shotokan Karate while guiding generations of instructors across Japan, Asia, and the world. The Soke Takeshi Kitagawa Cup is more than a competition—it is a living expression of Karate’s philosophical roots, technical excellence, and moral discipline.

This championship provides practitioners a rare opportunity to compete under an organisation that values authentic lineage, technical correctness, and character development, beyond medals and trophies.

International Spirit, Sri Lankan Hospitality

Sri Lanka, with its deep respect for martial traditions and growing Karate culture, proudly hosts this international-level championship. The venue, Albert F. Peiris Indoor Stadium, Wennappuwa, offers world-class facilities and an energetic atmosphere befitting a prestigious Shotokan event.

Participants from different regions are expected to come together in the spirit of friendship, cultural exchange, and mutual respect—true to the principles of Karate-Do.

Exclusive Technical Seminars by Soke Takeshi Kitagawa

In addition to the championship events, the Takeshi Kitagawa Cup 2026 will feature multiple special programs, including exclusive technical seminars conducted by Soke Takeshi Kitagawa himself. 


These seminars offer a rare opportunity for instructors and advanced practitioners to learn directly from an authentic Japanese master, gaining deep insight into Shotokan fundamentals, advanced techniques, and Budo philosophy.

International Spirit, Sri Lankan Hospitality

Sri Lanka, with its deep respect for martial traditions and growing Karate culture, proudly hosts this international-level championship. The venue, Albert F. Peiris Indoor Stadium, Wennappuwa, offers world-class facilities and an energetic atmosphere befitting a prestigious Shotokan event.

Participants from different regions are expected to come together in the spirit of friendship, cultural exchange, and mutual respect—true to the principles of Karate-Do.

Organised by Nihon Shotokan Karate-Do SANKUKAI – Sri Lanka

The championship is officially organised by Nihon Shotokan Karate-Do SANKUKAI – Sri Lanka, functioning under the Sōhonbu Jimukyoku (General Headquarters Secretariat) of SANKUKAI.

The Sri Lankan unit has consistently demonstrated dedication, discipline, and organisational excellence, making it a trusted host for an event of this stature.

Leadership & Coordination

The event is coordinated by
Sensei R. Deva Kumar
(Karate Family – Sri Lanka)

Under his leadership, the championship aims to uphold the highest standards of fairness, safety, and traditional Karate values. His commitment to nurturing Karate as a family-oriented, disciplined path is evident in every initiative undertaken by the Sri Lankan SANKUKAI team.

📞 Contact: +94 776 713 328

 

Looking Ahead

As anticipation builds, this championship promises to become a memorable milestone in the international SANKUKAI calendar. Beyond competition, it strengthens bonds between dojos, countries, and cultures—guided by the teachings of Soke Takeshi Kitagawa.

We warmly welcome all affiliated members, instructors, and Karate families to be part of this historic celebration of Shotokan Karate.

Osu! 🥋

✈️ Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) — Sri Lanka’s main international airport and the closest airport to Wennappuwa.

The nearest airport to Albert F. Peiris Indoor Stadium, Wennappuwa is:

✈️ Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)

📍 Location: Katunayake, Sri Lanka
📏 Distance: Approx 25–30 km
⏱️ Travel Time: Around 45–60 minutes by road (depending on traffic)

This is Sri Lanka’s main international airport and the most convenient entry point for:

  • International teams

  • Officials & referees

  • Overseas participants attending the Soke Takeshi Kitagawa Cup 2026

🚗 Connectivity

  • Well connected to Wennappuwa via main highways

  • Taxi, van, and coach services are easily available

  • Ideal for group transfers (like your 10-pax travel plan)

PLAN YOUR TOUR WELL IN ADVANCE

Negombo is known for its beautiful beaches, Dutch canals, markets, and rich culture — perfect for a relaxed city tour.

Negombo is a vibrant coastal town in Sri Lanka, celebrated for its golden sandy beaches, historic Dutch canals, and lively fish markets. The town reflects a rich blend of colonial heritage and local culture, seen in its churches, canalside life, and traditional fishing practices. Visitors can enjoy serene beach walks, explore bustling local markets, experience lagoon-side scenery, and taste authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, making Negombo an ideal destination for a relaxed yet culturally enriching city tour.

 

 

The lagoon boat tour offers a peaceful and immersive experience through the calm backwaters of Negombo, surrounded by lush mangroves and rich natural beauty. As the boat glides gently across the lagoon, visitors can observe a variety of birds, traditional fishing methods, and daily village life along the shores. The serene environment provides excellent opportunities for photography and relaxation. Ideal for group travel, the tour allows everyone to enjoy nature together while learning about the local ecosystem and coastal lifestyle of Sri Lanka.

The shared experience encourages bonding, laughter, and collective enjoyment, allowing participants to relax together, interact freely, and create memorable moments in a refreshing natural setting.

The accommodation options selected for your four-day stay are designed to provide comfort, convenience, and a pleasant dining experience. Guests can enjoy cozy, well-maintained hotel rooms suitable for rest after daily activities. Meal offerings may vary depending on the hotel category and location, featuring a mix of local Sri Lankan flavours and international cuisine. 

 

Since each hotel follows its own menu plan and service style, the type of meals provided may differ from one property to another. Participants are requested to book their rooms accordingly, based on personal preferences and comfort expectations.

Meet the organizer - Sensei R Deva Kumar

Rajendran Deva Kumar will serve as the Chief Instructor of SANKUKAI Sri Lanka in 2026, entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining technical standards, organizational discipline, and the authentic spirit of Shotokan Karate across the country. He will be fully in charge of planning, organizing, and overseeing the Takeshi Kitagawa Cup 2026, ensuring smooth execution at every level. His leadership is strongly backed by SANKUKAI Asia Headquarters and the guidance of Jimukyokucho Kyoshi Arun Dev, providing structural support, international coordination, and lineage authority. With this collective backing, the championship is set to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, and true Budo values.

A Glorious Day for SANKUKAI India

A Glorious Day for SANKUKAI 

Honouring Teamwork, Dedication & a Historic Victory

The spirit of Karate shined brighter than ever as SANKUKAI celebrated a remarkable milestone by securing the Runner-Up Trophy at the Kerala State Kenyu Ryu Karate Championship 2025.
This achievement is not just a trophy — it is a testament to discipline, teamwork, unity, and unwavering commitment from every student, teacher, and supporter.

With 75 champions returning home with Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals, the event became a celebration of excellence and perseverance. Each victory reflected the countless hours of training, sweat, determination, and the unbreakable spirit of our students.

🌟 Behind Every Victory Stands a Team of Dedicated Mentors

A championship is never won in a single day. It is built through weeks and months of preparation, strategy, discipline, and teamwork.
This success shines today because of the selfless effort and sincere hard work of an extraordinary team of instructors, coordinators, and supporters.

🥋 From SANKUKAI  Asia Headquarters

A heartfelt appreciation goes out to:

  • Sensei Rajmohan – The backbone of the arrangements, guiding every step with leadership and clarity.

  • Jun Sensei Junaib – Ensuring smooth coordination and inspiring the students with confidence.

  • Jun Sensei Ratheesh – Managing logistics with dedication and supporting the team tirelessly.

  • Shidoin Ashin – Offering technical guidance and bringing structure to every phase of preparation.

  • Hrishikesh – Working consistently behind the scenes, ensuring everything ran flawlessly.

  • Sir Arvind from Tornado – Providing exceptional support and contributing significantly to the event’s success.

From SANKUKAI Asia HQ, we proudly acknowledge:

  • Jun Sensei Abhi

  • Jun Sensei Nandana

  • Jun Sensei Vyshnav

Their presence, encouragement, and commitment added great strength to the entire team.

🤝 A Strong Martial Arts Brotherhood

One of the greatest strengths of this championship was the unity of multiple dojos and martial arts families coming together with pure sportsmanship and respect.

We extend our sincere gratitude to:

  • Hameed Sensei & Sajesh Sensei – Lunouna Shotokan

  • Kunjayammed Sensei – Star Academy

  • Mohandas Sensei & the Thalayad Dojos

Your cooperation, support, and martial spirit enriched the championship experience for everyone.
This unity reflects the true essence of Karate — mutual respect, discipline, and continuous growth.

🏆 Our Students — The Heart of This Achievement

The shining stars of this achievement are our 75 dedicated students who stood strong, confident, and disciplined throughout the championship.
Their performance was electrifying, showcasing:

  • Unshakable focus

  • Excellent technique

  • Unmatched fighting spirit

  • Beautiful dojo discipline

Their medals are not just victories — they are symbols of commitment, sacrifice, and relentless training.

❤️ A Special Thank You to Parents & Supporters

No journey is complete without the love and support of our amazing parents.
From early morning travel to cheering in the stands, your encouragement gave wings to our champions.

This achievement belongs to every mother, father, guardian, and supporter who believed in our students and stood by SANKUKAI Dojo.

🔥 Together, We Rise

This is just the beginning.
With unity, effort, discipline, and the guidance of our Senseis, SANKUKAI  is stepping into a future filled with greater achievements and stronger champions.

Our dojo stands proud today — not just because of medals, but because of the family we have built together.

Let’s continue to grow.
Let’s continue to inspire.
Let’s continue to shine.

🥋 SANKUKAI — Strong Roots, Stronger Future.

Oss! 🙏🔥

The Global Legacy of SANKUKAI Karate: Lineage, Growth & Vision for the Future

Karate’s power lies not just in its techniques, but in its lineage, values, and the dedication of masters who preserve and evolve the art. SANKUKAI Karate stands today as one of the most disciplined and traditionally rooted systems of Shotokan-based martial arts—carrying forward the teachings of Funakoshi Sensei → Nakayama Sensei → Asai Sensei → Soke Takeshi Kitagawa.

The Life & Legacy of Soke Takeshi Kitagawa

Basic Biography & Background

 

  • Full name / Title: Soke. Takeshi Kitagawa — Shuseki Shihan (Chief Instructor) of Nihon Shotokan Karate Do SANKUKAI.

  • Date & Place of Birth: Born on 8 January 1957 in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. 

  • Education: Graduated from Kyushu Sangyo University (九州産業大学) with a degree in Electronics.

  • Early martial arts: Before dedicating himself fully to Karate, he also trained in Aikido and Kendo.

Karate Lineage & Training: Kitagawa began his traditional Shotokan Karate under Masatoshi Nakayama Sensei — a key figure in modern Shotokan. After Nakayama Sensei’s passing (1987), Kitagawa continued his training under Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei — known for his fluid, dynamic style and refinement of traditional Shotokan. When Asai Sensei passed away in 2006, Kitagawa decided to establish his own “ryūha” (martial arts school/organization), founding SANKUKAI to preserve and promote their shared vision of Shotokan Karate.

 

Rank & Role


  • He currently holds 9th Degree Black Belt (9ᵗʰ Dan) in SANKUKAI, which positions him at the highest technical authority within the organization. As Soke (founder/head), he is responsible for the technical direction, curriculum, grading standards, and global oversight of SANKUKAI.

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Teaching & International Activity

Soke Kitagawa is not limited to Japan — he has taught and held seminars around the world:  Over decades, he has led seminars and workshops across United States, Europe, India, UK, Brazil, South America, and more. He has been active in building SANKUKAI presence globally — organizing grading exams, promotions, seminars, and corporate/traditional training programs.In the U.S., for example, he has had involvement with community programs such as “Karate for Kids,” after-school workshops, and municipality-supported initiatives. His commitment to traditional Karate values — discipline, character, technical precision — remains central. Many consider him a “beacon of wisdom and dedication.”


Founder of SANKUKAI

  • Officially, SANKUKAI was founded in 1985. At that time, it was known simply as “Shotokan Karate Club” in Japan.

  • The name “SANKUKAI” is derived from three Japanese syllables: “San” (make), “Ku” (Karate), “Kai” (organization) — meaning roughly “an organization of people devoted to good Karate.”  Under his leadership, SANKUKAI evolved into a globally recognized traditional Shotokan organization, with structured curriculum, grading, certification, and dojos worldwide.


Recognition & Contribution

  • Over decades, Soke Kitagawa has built SANKUKAI into a respected institution preserving traditional Shotokan values, while adapting to global contexts. He has personally conducted numerous seminars, examinations, and instructor training — contributing to the spread of traditional Karate internationally. In sum: Soke Takeshi Kitagawa is more than a high-ranking karateka — he is a custodian of classical Shotokan under Asai’s lineage, founder of a global Karate organisation, and a mentor for practitioners worldwide.

The Development of SANKUKAI Across the World

Under Soke Kitagawa’s leadership, SANKUKAI has expanded into a globally recognized Karate institution.

Technical excellence

  • a. Authentic certification from Japan

  • b. Unified training curriculum

  • c. Regular international seminars

What Makes SANKUKAI Unique?

  1. Lineage-based techniques directly inherited from Asai Sensei.

  2. Whiplash style, soft-hard transitions, and natural body mechanics.

  3. Global structure, clear syllabus, and transparent ranking.

  4. A strong focus on Budo spirit, humility, and character formation.

Jimukyokucho Kyoshi Arun Dev – Strengthening SANKUKAI in Asia

Kyoshi Arun Dev, a 7th Dan Black Belt (SANKUKAI) and internationally respected Karate educator, serves as the Jimukyokucho  of SANKUKAI-Asia and the Secretary General of the World Headquarters.


Key Contributions


  • Leading SANKUKAI’s operations across India, Sri Lanka, UAE, and multiple Asian countries

  • Organizing international seminars, grading exams, and instructor training

  • Promoting traditional Karate values aligned with Soke’s vision

  • Building a strong network of dojos under disciplined and unified standards

  • Representing Asia in Japan during technical training & administrative meetings


Under his leadership, SANKUKAI Asia has grown into one of the most organized Karate bodies in the region.(

Japan Certification: Authentic Kyu & Dan Grading

One of SANKUKAI’s strongest pillars is its Japan-based certification system, ensuring that every rank—whether Kyu or Dan—comes directly from Japan

 

Why This Matters

  • 1. Ensures global recognition of ranks

  • 2. Maintains high technical standards

  • 3. Prevents dilution of Karate quality

  • 4. Connects every student to authentic lineage

  •  

How It Works

  1. Students undergo examinations conducted by certified instructors.

  2. All evaluation sheets, videos (when required), and documents are sent to Japan.

  3. Certificates are issued by the World Headquarters, bearing Soke’s official seal.

  4. Dan ranks are additionally registered in the Japanese global black belt database.

This system protects the purity of the art and ensures fairness, transparency, and international value.

Annual Japan Training & Samurai Tour Program

Every year, SANKUKAI organizes a Japan Training & Tour Program, allowing students and instructors to train directly under Soke and senior Japanese instructors.

 

SANKUKAI Activities in India & Around the World

SANKUKAI runs a wide range of programs and events to nurture students and instructors:

In India

  • National seminars

  • DAN camps

  • KYU gradings

  • Inter-dojo championships

  • Technical workshops on kata, kumite, and bunkai

  • Self-defense programs for women and youth

  • Leadership & instructor development

  •  

International Activities

  • Global instructor meet

  • Cross-country cultural exchange camps

  • Online technical platforms

  • International black belt testing

  • Annual world-level events hosted by Japan HQ

The organization is rapidly growing because of its discipline, professionalism, and global harmony.

Benefits of Affiliating Your Dojo / Organization / Individual Membership

Joining SANKUKAI World HQ brings immense value:

A. Technical Benefits

  • Direct connection to Japan HQ and Soke

  • Access to Asai-style advanced techniques

  • Standardized curriculum & syllabus

B. Certification Benefits

  • Japan-issued Kyu and Dan certificates

  • Instructor license & examiner license

  • Global ID registration

C. Training Benefits

  • Participation in Japan Training Program

  • Priority access to international seminars

  • Special instructor-only training under Kyoshi Arun Dev

D. Organizational Benefits

  • Use of SANKUKAI branding

  • Listing on the official website

  • Recognition as an official branch dojo

  • Training support, posters, materials, seminars

E. Growth & Networking

  • Build credibility in your region

  • Connect with dojos worldwide

  • Opportunities to host national/international events

F. For Individual Members

  • Train under a verified lineage

  • Earn globally valid ranks

  • Develop discipline, confidence, and character

Affiliation with SANKUKAI is not just joining an organization—it is becoming part of a historic lineage.

 

SANKUKAI today stands as one of the world’s most respected traditional Karate bodies—rooted in an unbroken lineage from Funakoshi → Nakayama → Asai → Soke Takeshi Kitagawa.
Its global presence continues to expand through the dedication of leaders like Kyoshi Arun Dev, the authenticity of Japan-backed certification, and the unity of its international family.

For dojos and practitioners seeking purity, discipline, leadership, and global recognition, SANKUKAI offers a complete pathway grounded in tradition and excellence.

IMPORTANT NOTE 

SANKUKAI strictly recognizes only the certificates and ranks issued directly from its World Headquarters . Any certificate produced, issued, or claimed from outside the official HQ will be considered invalid and unauthorized. SANKUKAI is a trademarked and legally protected organization; therefore, any misuse, fabrication, or unauthorized issuance of certificates will be treated as a serious violation and may result in legal consequences as per trademark protection laws.