Karate’s deep roots in Japanese culture were showcased on Sunday at the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC) reception for the 8th Asian Winter Games. 

Karate’s deep roots in Japanese culture were showcased on Sunday at the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC) reception for the 8th Asian Winter Games. During the official gathering organised by the Japanese Olympic Committee following the opening of the Asian Winter Games in Sapporo, a Karate demonstration was performed in front of dignitaries and over 400 guests, thus displaying Karate’s outstanding legacy and strong tradition in Japanese society. 

The Karate presentation consisted of Katas performed by two-time World Champion Kiyou Shimizu and by members of the Japanese Male Kata Team. 

The reception took place at the Sapporo Grand Hotel, and was attended by WKF General Secretary Toshihisa Nagura, who was welcomed by the Japanese Olympic Committee President, Tsunekazu Takeda. In attendance were also the President of the Olympic Council of Asia, HE Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al Sabah and IOC Vice President John Coates, among others.