What is a ‘Gasshuku’?  Is it a seminar?  Is it a training camp? Is it a workshop?  Yes, yes, and yes!    The purpose of this event is to come together and train with like-minded traditional martial artists; to train, share, learn, make new friends, and re-unite with our old friends. 

The Goshukan Gasshuku is the annual IOGKA National Training Camp sanctioned by the Okinawa Goshukan Karate Kobudo Renmei in Okinawa, and hosted by the Okinawa Goshukan-Ryu USA Honbu – Columbus Dojo.  In addition to Goshukan-Ryu Karate topics (Shuri-Te and Five Ancestor Fist), guest Instructors are occasionally invited from traditional disciplines such as Shorin-Ryu, Uechi-Ryu, Kodokan Judo, Ju-Jutsu, Mugai-Ryu Iaido (Japanese Sword), Okinawan Kobudo (Weaponry), and other Japanese/Okinawan styles of Karate.

In addition to the family atmosphere and exceptional training, attendees are treated to the sights and sounds of Okinawa with Taiko (Drum) performances, and Odori (Okinawan Dance) demonstrations, making this event a truly cultural experience!

The first Goshukan Gasshuku was held at Cooper Creek Park in the summer of 1999, and is typically held in the July now.  The word Gasshuku means to ‘come together’ and is traditionally held outdoors; we come together to train with old friends and make new ones every year.