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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!

ENROL NOW!

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

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.

Calendar 2023

8 - 16
October

JKA / WF Autumn Gasshuku

Venue: Tokyo, Japan

20
October
From 12:00

Sub-Sahara Africa Black Belt Gradings

Sandan to Godan and International "D" Qualifications Examinations

Venue: Honbu, Wanderers

21
October

Sub-Sahara Africa Black Belt Gradings

Shodan and Nidan

Venue: Honbu, Wanderers

21
October

SA JKA 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner

Venue: Honbu, Wanderers

27 & 28
October

Freestate Provincial Black Belt Gradings

Black Belt Pre-grading Course- Grading and International Qualifications for DD (Examiner and Instructor)

Venue: TBA

3 & 4
November

North West Provincial Black Belt Gradings

Black Belt Pre-grading Course- Grading and International Qualifications for DD (Examiner and Instructor)

Venue: Vryburg

10 & 11
November

Northern Cape (Kimberly) Provincial Black Belt Gradings

Black Belt Pre-grading Course- Grading and International Qualifications for DD (Examiner and Instructor)

Venue: Kimberly

17 & 18
September

Western Cape Provincial Black Belt Gradings

Black Belt Pre-grading Course- Grading and International Qualifications for DD (Examiner and Instructor)

Venue: TBA

24 - 26
November

Sub-Sahara Africa Gasshuku

Standardisation training for dojo heads and Senior Board, general training and dan gradings (brown and black belts 18 years and older).

Venue: KZN

8 & 9
December

Limpopo Provincial Black Belt Gradings

Black Belt Pre-grading Course- Grading and International Qualifications for DD (Examiner and Instructor)

Venue: TBA

Shihankai

Johan la Grange

Chief Instructor - 7th Dan

Johan Roets

President - 8th Dan

Bruce Smith

Vice President - 7th Dan

Bradley Korras

International Affairs Director
7th Dan

Charles Beckenstrater

Chairman
7th Dan

Chris Seabelo

Development Transformation Director
6th Dan

Daniel Gombe

Sub-Sahara Africa Director
6th Dan

Warren Bainton

Warren Bainton

Events and Tournament Director
6th Dan

Wendy Wannenburg

Operational Director
6th Dan

Development Transformation Board

Chris Seabelo

6th Dan

Daniel Gombe

6th Dan

Edward Mtshali

7th Dan

Johan la Grange

7th Dan

Paul Hlobo

Wendy Wannenburg

6th Dan

Events

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!!

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Past Events