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.
