– Wrapping Up the Year with GKJN’s First US Kids Japan Tour –
As I shared in my previous update, I made an unexpected trip back to Japan from December 1 to 25.
The final big event of the year was escorting 18 children and parents from the San Gabriel Dojo in Los Angeles on a Japan Judo Training Tour (Dec 15–24).
Below is a report of everything we accomplished during this first ever GKJN tour.
1. Daily Highlights
(1) Day 1 (Dec 17): Starting at the Birthplace of Judo — The Kodokan!
We began at the sacred Kodokan. I planned to take a group photo in front of the Jigoro Kano statue, but to our surprise, Director Uemura himself came out to greet us and joined the photo.
It was the perfect start.
The kids were nervous before their very first practice in Japan, huddled together and wide eyed—adorable.
Despite tears welling up during Japan’s tough training menu, they pushed through with everything they had. Afterward, they said, “It was hard, but it was a great practice,” with proud faces.
A huge thank you to everyone at Kasuga Judo Club.
(2) Day 2 (Dec 18): Sumo Stable Visit & Chanko Experience
Thanks to my connection with Tobizaru, we were able to visit the Oshima Stable.
Unfortunately, Tobizaru’s own stable, Oitekaze, was away on tour in Fukuoka.
Both kids and adults were fascinated—the power of live sumo practice is incredible.
I had always thought “chanko” meant only hotpot, but apparently anything cooked by sumo wrestlers is called chanko.
Thank you to everyone at Oshima Stable for the warm hospitality.
(3) Day 3 (Dec 19): Feeling the World Level at V Technology Judo
The kids’ biggest excitement was sparring with World Champion (63kg) Kaju.
As expected from a champion, she was kind and playful with the children.
We also had the honor of meeting Coach Udaka, another world champion.
Look at the sparkle in the kids’ eyes as they held her world championship gold medal.
(4) Day 4 (Dec 20): Round Trip to Nagoya — Testing Ourselves at My Alma Mater, Seijoh High School
The kids were thrilled for their first Shinkansen ride.
Not only high school athletes but also local children joined the practice—thank you so much.
We also enjoyed sightseeing around Nagoya.
By the way, the microbus driver was my 75 year old father, who is also the Seijoh High School coach.
On the way back, everyone fell asleep instantly—completely exhausted.
(5) Day 6 (Dec 22): Incredible Instruction at the Prestigious Asahi Dojo
Asahi Sensei’s unique teaching methods are something I’ll be using in the US right away.
I’m deeply grateful for the warm welcome.
The kids were overjoyed when Ryu Shichinohe dropped in unexpectedly.
Thanks, Ryu!
Asahi Sensei even did my son’s first-ever randori.
He handled my judo beginner 3 year old so skillfully that my son instantly fell in love with judo.
It reminded me how important it is to win a child’s heart.
(6) Day 7 (Dec 23): US–Japan Friendship Matches & Cultural Experience
For our final day, Nakayama Judo Club organized US–Japan exchange matches.
The kids from both countries fought bravely—regardless of the results, they all deserve applause.
They even arranged a calligraphy experience for us.
We were truly moved by the hospitality.
Next time, we hope to return the favor on the West Coast—we’ll be waiting for you!
3. Reflections on the Tour (2025 Summary)
This was GKJN’s first US Kids Japan Tour, and while it was incredibly fulfilling, it also taught me so much.
I went in believing “Preparation is everything,” and prepared as thoroughly as possible, but reality is always different from expectations.
There were many unexpected challenges, and I often felt frustrated by my lack of experience.
Still, I’m grateful that:
- We completed the tour with no accidents or injuries, and
- We received comments like, “It was amazing! Only Megumi could have arranged something like this.”
Next time, I want to improve every area, enrich the program even more, and make the kids even happier.
This tour ended with several thousand dollars in deficit, but I truly believe in the value of cultural and judo exchange between American and Japanese children.
I humbly ask for your continued support.
Looking Back on 2025
2025 was a whirlwind—
Nationwide judo clinics, coaching Olympic hopefuls, the 3rd GKJN Cup, our first Japan tour, relocating to the West Coast, and welcoming our second child in February.
It was a year of nonstop movement.
I will never forget that none of this is possible without your support.
In 2026, I will stay true to my mission and work even harder to bring happiness to children through judo.
Wishing you all a bright and wonderful 2026.
A Happy New Year from the USA!
— Megumi Ishikawa
