Sarajevo seminar puts Kodokan Kata learning at the heart of European judo

Sarajevo opened three focused days of study on 18 May as the EJU Kodokan Kata Seminar 2026 brought together judoka from across Europe for an intensive look at Kodokan Kata. With 60 participants and 10 coaches on the tatami, the opening carried real energy and a clear sense of purpose around technical development.

The event began with remarks from EJU President Dr Tóth László, who framed the seminar as part of judo’s wider educational mission. He congratulated EJU Vice President of Education Kristiina Pekkola and the EJU Kata Commission for their work over the past four years, saying the results of that effort are now visible.

His message went beyond ceremony. Dr Tóth described judo as a lifelong learning journey and reminded everyone in the room that each judoka, whatever their age, grade or role, also represents the sport. In that context, kata was presented not only as a way to preserve heritage, but also as a path that can help younger generations stay connected to judo for longer.

In Sarajevo, kata was presented as both memory and future.

The European dimension of the seminar was impossible to miss. Judoka from different countries came together with a shared hunger to improve, and that point was echoed by Pekkola, who spoke warmly about seeing people of all ages and backgrounds training with such commitment.

This year’s programme is being led by Kodokan experts Yoshiharu Makishi and Kenichi Shohida. Their role has given the seminar a strong technical and cultural foundation, with sessions designed not only to refine movement but also to deepen understanding of the principles behind Kodokan Kata.

Makishi, who has been present throughout the tournament in Sarajevo, said he was impressed by both the standard and the variety of kata on display. He described kata as something far deeper than repeating techniques, calling it a place where the history, philosophy and spirit of judo continue to live. He also pointed to the growth of the European Kata Championships, noting the increase in nations, pairs and categories, and highlighted how meaningful it is to see kata becoming more accessible, including for adapted and disability judoka.

That idea of connection also extended beyond the tatami. Among the guests in Sarajevo was the Ambassador of Japan to Bosnia and Herzegovina, His Excellency Mr Toshihiro Aiki, who attended the performances and reflected on judo as part of Japan’s philosophy and cultural identity. He said it was an honour to see the Kata Championships embraced in Bosnia and Herzegovina and across Europe, especially in a year marking 30 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Back on the mat, the first technical session centred on Koshiki-no-Kata, one of the most historically significant and demanding kata in the Kodokan curriculum. Under the guidance of the Kodokan experts, participants studied its origins, principles and place within modern judo.

Over the next days, the seminar continues with more Kodokan Kata sessions. For everyone involved, Sarajevo is not just hosting another event. It is offering a serious space to learn, to preserve tradition and to strengthen the technical foundations of European judo.

Source: EJU.net

Image source: EJU / European Judo Union