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The South African home of traditional JKA Karate, recognized by the JKA World Federation Head Quarters, Japan. ‘The Keeper of Karate’s Highest Tradition.’

We are the officially registered South African branch of the Japan Karate Association (日本空手協会; Nihon Karate Kyokai) founded on May 27, 1949. SA JKA is the largest group of JKA karate practitioners in the world outside Japan. Our grades are recognised internationally and in Japan. Our senseis train at the infamous Honbu in Tokyo as often as possible to ensure that standards remain at the highest level. Join us to benefit from the hard won lessons learnt by generations of traditional martial artists. Oss!

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Use this map to zoom in on the area where you live and click on the nearest dojo pin for contact detail.

Find a Dojo Near You

    Frequently Asked Questions

    The cost associated with joining a dojo is determined by the head instructor of that particular dojo. If you’re interested in joining, we encourage you to reach out directly to the dojo of your choice. You can easily get in touch with your preferred dojo by selecting it from the map on our website. This selection will guide you to a contact form that you can use to inquire about membership costs and any other information you may need.

    Our association is proud to have dojos in various locations. To discover the nearest dojo to your area, we recommend using our interactive map. Alternatively, you can utilize the search bar by entering the name of your locality for a convenient search option. This way, you can easily locate the most suitable dojo for your training needs.

    For your convenience, you can acquire a high-quality uniform (gi) through multiple avenues:

    1. Affiliated Dojos: Many of our affiliated dojos offer uniforms for purchase on-site.
    2. Bushido Martial Arts Supplies:  Find top-quality uniforms for sale  accessible at www.bushidosuits.co.za.

    The training schedule for each specific dojo is set by its head instructor. If you’re considering joining, we recommend reaching out directly to the dojo you’re interested in. You can effortlessly contact your preferred dojo by selecting it from the map featured on our website. This selection will lead you to a contact form, which you can utilize to inquire about training times and any additional information you require. We encourage you to get in touch to align your training with your preferences.

    Our dojos (training centers) gladly welcome children as young as 5 years old, but it’s important to understand that the final decision regarding the appropriate age for training lies with the head instructor of each dojo. We encourage you to directly connect with the instructor to discuss the best starting age for your child’s training. Rest assured, we have specialized programs designed to meet the specific needs of young karate enthusiasts, ensuring a safe and age-appropriate training environment. In addition, some of our dojos offer Dinky Karate for children aged 3 and 4.

    Receiving credit for grades and certificates earned in the past is a possibility, but this is a matter that should be discussed directly with the head instructor of the dojo you are considering joining. To initiate this conversation, we recommend reaching out to the instructor through the maps available on our website. Simply select your preferred dojo, and you will be directed to a contact form where you can pose your inquiry to the instructor. They will provide you with the necessary guidance and information regarding credit for your previous achievements.

    Absolutely, our belt grading system holds international recognition and accreditation from the International JKA Headquarters, also known as the Honbu, in Japan. This means that your belt ranks and achievements are not only esteemed within our association but also carry significant value and acknowledgment on a global scale.

    If you have a complaint or concern, please reach out to our dedicated support team through the Contact Us section on our website. We take all feedback seriously.

    Yes, we are committed to inclusivity. Please inform us of any special needs or accommodations required, and we will work to provide a comfortable and supportive training environment.

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    The safety and well-being of children and vulnerable adults is of primary importance.  SA JKA are constantly working to improve the training environment and our SA JKA members experience. It is also a requirement of SASCOC and the law that sporting bodies take appropriate steps to safeguard minors and vulnerable adults. As part of its commitment to this, SA JKA Dojo Heads have undergone safeguarding courses and training and are registered as such. If there are any problems pertaining to a member’s well-being and safety, they can be reported to the Dojo’s appointed Safeguarding officer (with certified Safeguarding Awareness or Designated Safety Officer status).

    Any complaint may also be reported confidentially to SA JKA’s Designated Safety Officer, being Izel Baker at honbu@karate.co.za.

    Calendar 2026

    17 Nov
    Seminar

    Seminar: Shihan Keith Geyer & Sensei Jess Burns (née Geyer)

    📅 November 17, 2026 – November 18, 2026 📍 Honbu Dojo, Wanderers 🥋 Shihan Keith Geyer (8th Dan), Sensei Jess Burns (née Geyer) (6th Dan)
    Seminar with Shihan Keith Geyer (8th Dan) and Sensei Jess Burns (6th Dan), Japan Karate Association. R400pp per class, max 60 per class. Honbu…
    Register Now
    20 Nov
    Grading
    Training

    Sub-Sahara Africa Gasshuku

    📅 November 20, 2026 – November 22, 2026 📍 KZN
    Standardisation training for dojo heads and the senior board, general training, and Dan gradings (blue to black, 18 and over).
    Register Now

    Shihankai

    Johan la Grange

    Chief Instructor - 7th Dan

    Bruce Smith

    President - 7th Dan

    Bradley Korras

    International Affairs Director
    7th Dan

    Charles Beckenstrater

    Chairman
    7th Dan

    Chris Seabelo

    Development Transformation Director
    7th Dan

    Daniel Gombe

    Sub-Sahara Africa Director
    7th Dan

    Warren Bainton

    Warren Bainton

    Events and Tournament Director
    6th Dan

    Wendy Wannenburg

    Operational Director
    7th Dan

    Development Transformation Board

    Chris Seabelo

    7th Dan

    Daniel Gombe

    7th Dan

    Johan la Grange

    7th Dan

    Paul Hlobo

    Wendy Wannenburg

    7th Dan

    News

    8923SAJKA Sensei Bruce President Announcement 04

    Seven new rokudans. Well done (L to R) – Gareth Crowe Sensei, Bernard Raubenheimer Sensei, Warren Bainton Sensei, Riaan La Grange Sensei, Konrad Steyn Sensei, Pano Wills Sensei, Gordon Stevens Sensei. Oss!!

    0677SAJKA Sensei Johan 7th Dan congratulatory post 01
    Sub Sahara Africa Grading PlaceHolder 04

    Past Events