Activity Report: WMKA South America Unification Seminar 2026
Date: March 22, 2026
Location: Arakaki Dojo (Headquarters)
Organized by: World Matsubayashi-ryu Karate-do Association (WMKA) – South America
Summary of the Event:
Last Sunday, March 22, the 2026 Unification Seminar was successfully held at the Arakaki Dojo, under the direction of Sensei Seiko Arakaki (8th Dan, Kyoshi). The event brought together the WMKA Matsubayashi-ryu community in South America, strengthening the school’s technical and philosophical ties.
The event drew a remarkable turnout of over 100 practitioners, including delegations from the Kumoji Kodokan Dojo, led by Sensei Yamil Pecci (6th Dan, Renshi), and the Piñeyrua Dojo from Mercedes, Uruguay, headed by Sensei Daniel Piñeyrua (5th Dan).
Schedule of Activities
* Zen Module: The day began at 8:00 a.m. with a theoretical and practical introduction to Zazen. Concepts such as breathing techniques, postures, and the importance of meditative practice in the path of Karate-do were explored in depth. The session consisted of a 45-minute sitting meditation, culminating in the recitation of the Okyo (Maka Hannya Haramita Shingyo).
* Technical Refinement: After a short break, the practice of Shiho Kihon and Shiho Tsuki began. The central objective was the unification of technical criteria and the application of the corrections and updates obtained in Okinawa during the 2024 international events.
* Kata Practice: A thorough review of the 18 katas that comprise our school’s official program was conducted, ensuring the technical fidelity required by headquarters.
* Kobudo: The final training phase focused on the handling of traditional weapons, including the bo, sai, nunchaku, and tonfa, fundamental elements of our current practice.
Institutional Closing Ceremony
To conclude the meeting, all participants jointly performed the Fukyugata Ichi, reaffirming the spirit of unity within the association. The day ended with a reflection on the legacy of O’Sensei Shoshin Nagamine, honoring the fundamental principle of our school:
Ken Zen Ichi Nyo (拳禅一如): “Karate and Zen are one and the same.”
WMKA South America Board of Directors Preserving the legacy of Matsubayashi-ryu.
Seminar Link: https://youtu.be/D_Lr9w3DamQ
