8th Vietnam Karate Tournament 2026 – Kyokushin connects people across borders
What does it feel like to arrive on the other side of the world and yet immediately have the feeling of being part of a big family?
This is exactly the feeling I was able to experience at the 8th Vietnam Karate Tournament in Ho Chi Minh City.
As an official representative of the IKO World Zen Kyokushin Germany and a corner referee (Fukushin), I was invited to participate in one of Vietnam's most significant Kyokushin tournaments.
What I was able to experience there was much more than just a karate competition – it was a journey full of new friendships, mutual respect, and unforgettable encounters.
Kyokushin Karate at an international level
On 27 June 2026, the sports hall of the Japanese School in Ho Chi Minh City was transformed into the centre of the international Kyokushin world.
Over 80 karateka from Vietnam, Japan, Germany, Cambodia, and other countries met to put their skills in kata and kumite to the test. The tournament was organised by the IKO World Zen Kyokushin Vietnam Branch and was characterised by exceptionally professional execution.
For me, it was a special honour to officially represent Germany and to judge the fights as Fukushin together with Shihan Nakayama (JKJO). I was then able to judge the final fights together with Shihan Shigeo Niitsu – a great responsibility and at the same time a valuable experience.
Impressive organisation with Japanese precision
I was particularly impressed by the organisation of the entire tournament.
Under the leadership of Sensei Daimon Keisuke, the entire event day ran in a superbly structured manner. Despite the numerous categories, fighters, and international guests, every part of the programme was carried out punctually and professionally. At the same time, there remained enough time for personal conversations and exchanges between the dojos.
This combination of efficiency and warmth made the entire weekend something special.
A special highlight was the violin playing by Sensei Daimon as a programme item.
MMore than just competitions – Kyokushin as a community
Of course, kata and kumite were the focus of the tournament. Even more important, however, was the atmosphere.
Whether children, teenagers, or experienced black belts – mutual respect was palpable everywhere. Before and after every fight, the karateka met with politeness and appreciation. These are precisely the values that have always defined Kyokushin.
„Durch unsere World Zen-Kyokushin Organisation können wir immer wieder neue Freunde auf der ganzen Welt kennenlernen. Freundschaft entsteht nicht nur durch das gemeinsame Training, sondern durch die gemeinsamen Erlebnisse.“ – Sensei Son Le
Sayonara Party – Friendships beyond national borders
After the tournament, participants and guests met for the traditional Sayonara Party.
Here it became clear once again what defines Kyokushin. Although many different languages were spoken, conversations, shared laughter, and new friendships quickly emerged.
It is precisely these moments that often remain in the memory longer than medals or trophies.
Seminar with karateka of all ages
On Sunday, an international seminar followed at the Japanese School.
After a joint kihon-geiko, the participants were divided into smaller groups. I was able to teach a children's group aged about five to nine and train the basics of Kyokushin Karate with them. Afterwards, kumite exercises were on the programme for all age groups.
Around 40 to 50 karateka took part in the seminar. Particularly impressive was the focused and respectful atmosphere. Everyone trained with great commitment and showed a desire to learn from one another.
Ho Chi Minh City – modern, vibrant, and hospitable
Besides the karate, there was also time to get to know Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City is a fascinating metropolis. Modern, dynamic, and full of life. At the same time, I encountered friendly and helpful people everywhere. The Japanese-influenced district in particular offered a pleasant atmosphere with many restaurants, cafés, and shops.
The journey was also a highlight in terms of cuisine. The variety of Vietnamese and international cuisine made every restaurant visit a special experience.
On Sunday afternoon, Shihan Niitsu guided us through the city. Together, we discovered well-known sights and were able to experience the special atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City outside of the sports hall as well.
An important trip for the Shinzen Dojo Berlin
For the Shinzen Dojo Berlin, this trip was much more than participation in an international tournament.
It offered the opportunity to deepen existing friendships, establish new contacts in Vietnam, and further expand the network within the World Zen Kyokushin family.
My wish is that we will also participate in international events with several members of our dojo in the future and make these valuable experiences possible for our students.
Conclusion
The 8th Vietnam Karate Tournament has once again shown that Kyokushin is much more than competition.
It connects people of different cultures, languages, and nations through common values such as respect, discipline, and mutual appreciation.
I have returned to Berlin with many new impressions, inspiring encounters, and great gratitude.
Osu!
