– 1st U.S.–Japan Joint Training & 4th GKJN Cup Confirmed! –
It’s been three weeks since I moved to San Francisco, and last weekend I flew to Dallas for the Dallas Open / President’s Cup. I met with dojos from across the U.S. and started coordinating next year’s clinic schedule—well, “business trip” sounds cooler than it actually was, but things are gradually coming together for our nationwide clinic caravan in 2025.
Today, I’m excited to share two major updates:
GKJN’s first-ever U.S.–Japan Joint Training in Japan this December, and the official date for the 4th GKJN Cup next year.
(1) GKJN’s First U.S.–Japan Joint Training in Japan!
We will be sending a group of American youth judoka to Japan for joint training and cultural exchange.
- Dates: December 17 (Wed) – 24 (Wed)
- Participants: About 15 people (7–10 youth + parents)
- Training Sites:
① Tokyo – Kodokan
We’re coordinating with Tokuno sensei at Kasuga Judo Club for the first day.
We’ll also visit V Technology, thanks to Director Udaka’s long-standing connection. Their 63kg athlete is the reigning world champion—an incredible opportunity for the kids.
② Chiba – Nakayama Judo Club
They will host us on Day 2 and the final day. We’re planning mock matches and an exchange event on the last day.
③ Kanagawa – Asahi Dojo
Through Kosei Inoue sensei, Asahi sensei has kindly agreed to host us so the kids can experience top level youth judo.
④ Aichi – Seijo High School
My father is the head coach, and we’ll join their practice and enjoy sightseeing in Nagoya.
- We’re also arranging a visit to a sumo stable and a chanko nabe experience, thanks to my friend, professional sumo wrestler Shōen.
- A simple pamphlet is attached for details.
I will personally accompany the group for the entire trip.
(2) Lecture & Judo Clinic at Asahi Junior High School in Tsu City, Mie
- Date: December 5 (Fri)
- Event: School lecture + Tsu City Judo Clinic
- Background: I was invited by Fukuroji sensei, whom I met years ago when he was teaching at the New Jersey Japanese School, where I gave a small talk.
(3) The 4th GKJN Cup — Official Date Set! First Time on the West Coast!
- Date: Saturday, December 19, 2026
- Venue: Los Angeles Budokan
- Host: GKJN × Los Angeles Judo Organizations
- We are currently in discussions to invite several world class athletes, including former Japan National Team Head Coach Kosei Inoue and multiple world champions.
After the LA event, we plan to travel to Chicago for kids’ clinics and possibly the 5th GKJN Cup in Chicago.
A Truly Exciting Lineup of Events!
This will be our first time bringing American youth to Japan, and I’ll be fully responsible for guiding them throughout the trip. I’m nervous, but preparation is everything. I’ll head to Japan early on November 30 to make sure everything is ready so the kids can have the best possible experience.
My goal is simple:
Create an unforgettable week for both sides and make the children genuinely happy.
I’ll give everything I have to make that happen.
If anyone in Japan would like to host or treat our American guests—restaurants, cultural experiences, anything—please feel free to reach out!
