Okinawa Karate Kaikan (沖縄空手会館) is a complex south of Naha on Okinawa Island. Opened in 2017, the complex is dedicated to karate and contains various facilities, including multiple dojos and a museum, where visitors can learn more about the Okinawan martial art.

Karate has a long history in Okinawa, dating back to the times of the Ryukyu Kingdom when the martial art was practiced in order to defend the king. Like today, the martial art was practiced in promotion of peace and taught discipline and mental as well as physical strength. Karate became popular throughout Japan in the early 20th century before spreading around the world and becoming the most practiced martial art in the world. The Karate Kaikan was established to promote and preserve the essence of one of Okinawa's biggest exports.

The Karate Kaikan's museum recounts the history of karate through various documents in addition to artifacts like uniforms and weapons. There is also an area with interactive exhibits, in which visitors can experience karate training techniques such as fast punching and lifting weights to strengthen the wrists and legs. Availability of English explanations is very good. Outside the museum there is a small shop and cafe.

In addition to its main dojo, the Karate Kaikan also has a training room that for the public (advance reservations required). Standing apart from the main building, a special dojo with a red tiled roof is a beautiful example of a traditional dojo and is reserved for special events.

Getting there and around

Take bus number 446 from the Naha Bus Terminal to Tomigusukukōen-mae (豊見城公園前, around 10 minutes, 280 yen, 1-2 buses/hour), from where the Okinawa Karate Kaikan is a 5-10 minute walk. Alternatively, the Karate Kaikan is a ten minute drive from downtown Naha.

Note that the Former Navy Underground Headquarters are located only about a ten minute walk away from the Karate Kaikan.

How to get to and around Naha

Hours and Fees

Okinawa Karate Kaikan

Hours

Closed

Admission

Typical Visit Duration

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