It has been 13 years since I learned and practiced traditional martial arts, which is a part of Japanese culture, from Master Kuniyuki Kai (Title: Tendokan). Although I am still in the middle of my journey, it is my greatest pleasure to be able to open a dojo in Okinawa and to start activities to promote the dojo, thanks to the people around me who support me.

I would also like to express my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the students of the Taijiquan class in Nobeoka City, the Misato Town Taijiquan Association, and my senior disciple, Ms. Motomachi Kimiko (Taijiquan / Okinawa Goju-ryu Karatedo), Mr. Korogi Katsuhiko (Takachiho Denrai Shinkage-ryu Bojutsu / Mugai-ryu Iai Heido / Shinto Muso-ryu Jodo), Mr. Korogi Takeshige (inheritor of Takachiho Denrai Shinkage-ryu Bojutsu).

During my first year of enrolling in the dojo, there was a time when I, a passive person with no special skills or things to be proud of, cried and told Master Kai how anxious I was about the future. He spoke to me in a gentle, admonishing way, saying “Don’t worry. Trust me and follow me.” I still vividly recall the warm feeling I had and the strong feeling of trust I had in him when I heard those words.

I will continue to devote myself to the traditional martial arts in my hometown of Okinawa, where I was born and raised, and I believe that it is my role to share the “mind, technique, and body” with many people through the traditional martial arts that Master Kai learned, and to pass them on to the next generation.

I will continue to cherish the relationships I have with people, and while bearing in mind how grateful I am to them, I will maintain my “unyielding spirit” and move forward one step at a time on the path I believe in.

May 17, 2025
Nakasone Tomonari (Title: Tendo)