Expedition to the Dominican Republic and the America/Caribbean Regional Tournament

First Day in the Dominican Republic (July 15)

　On July 14, 2026, the group departed from Haneda Airport and, after a journey of approximately 30 hours, arrived at Las Américas International Airport in the Dominican Republic. They were warmly welcomed by Kyoshi Quiñones Shihan, Moises 3rd dan, and others. On the day of their arrival, a local radio program featured a special segment about the event. Jose Peña Shihan introduced SOKE Nakazaki and the upcoming tournament. Beginning with topics that would interest the general public, such as the difference between Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and traditional Budo (Karate), he spoke passionately about the tournament. He expressed his hope that local people would have the opportunity to see for themselves and experience the true spirit of the martial arts practiced by SOKE Nakazaki, the highest instructor, and the Yushinmon Shihan.
　That evening, SOKE Nakazaki was reunited with Jose Shihan for the first time in quite a while. His sincere dedication to Karate and his outstanding leadership remained unchanged, bringing great energy and enthusiasm to the entire dojo.

Welcome by Quiñones Shihan, Moises 3rd dan, and others		Radio broadcast

Reunion of SOKE and Jose Shihan

Discussion with Montalvo Shihan, the chief organizer, during training breaks

Shihan instructors together

Visit to the Dominican Republic Headquarters Dojo (July 16)

　On July 16, the group visited the Dominican Republic Headquarters Dojo. They observed students of all ages, from children to adults, training with great seriousness and dedication. Their enthusiasm was truly inspiring and clearly reflected how deeply Karate has taken root in the local community and continues to grow. Jose Peña Shihan stood out through his active participation in training. What was especially impressive was his humble attitude. Throughout the sessions, he consistently sought guidance and confirmation from SOKE Nakazaki, demonstrating both respect and a strong desire to learn. At the same time, it was noted that some students tended to neglect the fundamentals and drift toward movements that were more comfortable or familiar to them. This revealed areas where further improvement could be made.

Training at the Dojo

Seminar on the Day Before the Tournament (July 17)

　On July 17, Shihan from various regions gathered for a judges' seminar, special training sessions in preparation for the Tournament, and an introductory Sado workshop. During the judges' seminar, practical instruction was provided under the guidance of SOKE Nakazaki. Topics included the proper handling of judging flags, accurate decision-making, correct positioning and movement, as well as the mindset, discipline, and responsibilities expected of a judge.
　This was followed by instruction in Kumite techniques. Through training in kicking techniques and sabaki, the participating Shihan were reminded once again of the Yushinmon spirit of Kumite, which places great importance on fairness and safety. Several Shihan also received instruction in Sado (the Way of Tea). This was at the wish of SOKE Nakazaki, who hoped to share the spirit of Japanese culture through Kencha, a tea offering ceremony, to be held during the Tournament on the following day.
　That evening, the final training session before the Tournament was held with the participation of local children. During the practice, a television station visited the Dojo and conducted an interview with SOKE Nakazaki. He spoke about his passion for Karate, the spirit of Doto Shorinji-ryu, and the importance of international exchange through martial arts.

Diaz Shihan, who traveled from Puerto Rico to the Dominican Republic for the Dan examination

Interview with a television station

America/Caribbean Regional Tournament (July 18)

　On the day of the Tournament, the Shihan and competitors from the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico warmly welcomed SOKE Nakazaki. During the opening ceremony, SOKE Nakazaki, serving as Tournament Chairman, delivered an address. He expressed his gratitude to Tournament Committee Chairman Montalvo and the many Shihan whose efforts had made the event possible. He also spoke passionately of his hope that the genuine teachings of Yushinmon would take firm root in the Dominican Republic, stating that this very purpose was the reason for his visit.
　This was followed by a heartfelt message from the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Japan. The message emphasized that Karate holds value far beyond competition, serving as a means of character development and lifelong learning. It also highlighted Karate as a bridge of cultural exchange between Japan and the Dominican Republic. The Ambassador encouraged the participants to enjoy the experience, respect their fellow competitors, and compete with honor. The unexpected congratulatory message surprised everyone present and became one of the most memorable and moving moments of the day.

　In the first demonstration program, SOKE Nakazaki prepared tea as an offering to the late Hoyo Sensei and the late Hanshi Miguel Peña, which was presented by Konoki Shihan. Tea was then served to Kyoshi Hernani Montalvo (6th Dan), Kyoshi Jose Peña (6th Dan), and Kyoshi Rafael Cuebas (7th Dan), introducing the traditional Japanese culture of Sado to those in attendance. This was followed by a Buke-mai performed by Ono Shihan, dressed in kimono. Symbolically portraying the life of a samurai, the performance filled the venue with both silence and deep emotion.

　Next came Karate and Kobudo demonstrations. Quiñones Shihan and Moises 3rd dan performed Bassai, Cuebas Shihan demonstrated Iai-do, and Diaz Shihan presented Oshiro-no-Kon. Each demonstration by the local instructors displayed a high level of technical skill and strong martial spirit. Ono Shihan then performed Tokumine-no-Kon, followed by Jose Peña Shihan's demonstration of Kushanku, taught directly by SOKE (Jikiden). Their heartfelt performances left a powerful impression on the audience. The Yakusoku Kumite performed by Ono Shihan and Jose Peña Shihan captivated the crowd with its intensity and precision.

　When the competition events began, the competitors entered each match with pride and a spirit of fair play, while parents and supporters watched with anticipation. The matches conveyed not only victory and defeat, but also the spirit, pride, and bonds that lie at the heart of Budo. For the Kumite finals, SOKE Nakazaki personally served as referee. His bearing, movements, and judgments embodied the spirit of Budo itself, creating an atmosphere of dignity and focus throughout the venue. His officiating possessed such presence and refinement that it seemed to be a martial arts demonstration in its own right.

Demonstrations by representatives

　After the Tournament, the children quickly forgot their fatigue from the matches and ran straight to SOKE Nakazaki, greeting him with bright smiles.

Special Seminar with Direct Instruction from SOKE (July 20)

　On the day following the Tournament, a special seminar featuring direct instruction (Jikiden) from SOKE was held. In addition to teaching Gojushiho, SOKE once again emphasized the importance of mastering the fundamentals, reviewing Kihon, and ensuring both technical accuracy and proper martial spirit. SOKE devoted himself to the instruction of the Shihan with tireless enthusiasm, taking little time to rest throughout the day. The participants concentrated intensely, determined not to miss a single word of his teaching. Training continued with great focus and dedication.
　Kyoshi Montalvo of the Dominican Republic commented: "Today's seminar was extremely meaningful and provided many new insights. Moving forward, we will place greater emphasis on the fundamentals as instructed, and will work to further strengthen our Kata, Kumite sabaki, and adherence to Yushinmon standards." Kyoshi Cuebas of Puerto Rico also shared his thoughts: "By placing greater importance on the fundamentals, I hope to continue contributing to the growth and development of Yushinmon. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to SOKE Nakazaki and to all the instructors who traveled from Japan."

Closing Remarks from SOKE

　Karate is not merely the pursuit of technique or competitive ability. It is a Budo founded upon spiritual and cultural values such as discipline, respect, and honor. Through this visit, I was once again reminded of the importance of helping overseas Karate practitioners and instructors develop a deeper understanding of these essential principles.
　For more than a decade, I have continued to visit and teach at Dojo in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and the United States. Through these experiences, I have come to firmly believe that the true essence of Karate, rooted in the spirit of Budo and Japanese culture, cannot be fully conveyed through short-term seminars or technical instruction alone. There are many aspects that can only be understood through firsthand experience. By visiting Japan, spending time with its people, and learning directly from its culture and values, overseas practitioners gain insights that cannot be acquired elsewhere. If technical development advances without this deeper understanding, growth as a Karate practitioner will inevitably remain incomplete. Looking ahead, I hope to establish opportunities to welcome overseas instructors to Japan more actively and provide them with the guidance and experiences necessary to deepen their understanding of both Karate and Japanese culture.
　Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Montalvo Shihan and all the instructors of the Dominican Republic. They made great efforts in preparing for the Tournament and also extended warm hospitality to us throughout this visit. I would like to once again offer my deepest and most respectful thanks.

Written by: Kazuki Aoyama, 4th dan Shihan