The magnificent and recently renovated Nippon Budokan arena in Tokyo (Japan) was the stage where the first major Karate event in the country was held after the coronavirus outbreak. Innovative measures and many precautions were taken in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The magnificent and recently renovated Nippon Budokan arena in Tokyo (Japan) was the stage where the first major Karate event in the country was held after the coronavirus outbreak. Innovative measures and many precautions were taken in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Over 500 athletes and 60 teams gathered at the Nippon Budokan arena for the Kanto region Karate Tournament. The event was the first competition in Nippon Budokan after the renovation of the venue as the arena is getting ready to host the Karate tournament at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020.

The competition was limited to male and female team Kumite and male and female team kata categories. In addition to the general WKF COVID-19 guidelines, many procedures were applied to guarantee the safety and well-being of participants.

Among the innovative practises, all the Kumite competitors were compelled to wear a special mouth shield and face guard in their bouts. This face guard, named “Menho” was used to limit the transmission of particles through the air. The analysis which was implemented by the Japan Karate-do Federation after the conclusion of the event resolved that the “Menho” prevents 98% of the contaminants in the air.

The tournament was held behind closed doors, and only registered team, staff members, and limited guests were allowed at the event. The use of face masks was mandatory, and referees were required to wear face shield as well.

Social distancing was enforced both inside and outside of the venue, as measures were taken to avoid large gatherings at the different areas of the venue. Temperature checks and frequent sanitation were implemented, and special attention was put in the air distribution inside the venue. The opening and closing ceremonies were cancelled to prevent unnecessary crowds.   

The event in Japan extends the efforts of many national federations to organise Karate competitions as the sport aims to go back to normal all over the world.