About Us
World Gojuryu Karate Association Watanabe Ha
Our association proudly operates dojos across multiple countries, including Japan, India, Great Britain, and Sri Lanka. Each dojo serves as a hub for practitioners of all levels to engage in rigorous training, experience the profound philosophy of Goju-Ryu, and connect with a worldwide community of martial artists.
At the core of the World Gojuryu Karate Association Watanabe Ha is a commitment to upholding the rich traditions of Goju-Ryu Karate while embracing the evolving needs of modern practitioners. Our mission is to foster the growth of martial arts through rigorous training, respectful practice, and the development of strong, principled individuals.
Soke Isoharu Watanabe
Founder of the World Gojuryu Karate Association Watanabe На
Soke Isoharu Watanabe was born on April 1, 1939, in Osaka, Japan. From an early age, he demonstrated a keen interest in martial arts. His journey began in 1955 when he was awarded a 2nd Dan in Judo, marking the start of a lifelong dedication to martial disciplines. That same year, he began his study of Goju-Ryu Karate, a traditional Japanese martial art known for its combination of hard and soft techniques.
Karate Training and Contributions: Soke Watanabe trained under the guidance of two prominent Karate masters, the late Tomoharu Kisaki founder of Yuishinkan Gojuryu and the Late Eiichi Miyazato founder of Jundokan Gojuryu, whose teachings deeply influenced his approach to Goju-Ryu. In 1978, he established the Goju-Ryu Shinbu-kan Dojo in Osaka, creating a dedicated space for the practice and propagation of Goju-Ryu Karate.
Achievements and Recognitions:Soke Watanabe’s skill and dedication were recognized through several prestigious titles and ranks. In 1983, he was awarded the 6th Dan in Goju-Ryu by The All Japan Goju Kai, In 1986, he served as a referee at JKF Championship organized by the All Japan Karate Federation, in 1987, he was awarded the 7th Dan by the JKF, and in 1995, he was awarded the 9th Dan rank, underscoring his profound mastery of the art.
World Gojuryu Karate Association Watanabe Ha- Hon.Secretary
Soshihan Mehul Vora’s martial arts journey began in 1981 when he started training in Okinawa Gojuryu Karate-do. His commitment to martial arts was evident from the outset, and he quickly advanced through the ranks. By 1990, Vora expanded his expertise to Judo, and in 1994, he ventured into Boxing, further broadening his martial arts repertoire.
Achievements and Recognition: Soshihan Mehul Vora’s skill and dedication were recognized early on. In 1994, he was awarded his 1st degree black belt in Okinawa Gojuryu Karate-do from Shobukan India and in Kobudo by the United States Martial Arts Association. His achievements in competitive Karate were marked by national gold medals in both Kata and Kumite in 1994 and 1995, competing in the below 55 kg category.
In 1995, Vora received his 2nd degree black belt from Okinawa Gojuryu Karate-do Kenpo Seibukan India, and in 1998, he was awarded his 3rd degree black belt and the title of Sensei by the same organization