2026 IKGA European
Summer Camp
August 12 - 16, 2026 - Magglingen, Switzerland
Image: ©BASPO
Welcome Message to all members of the IKGA European Block
I would like to extend my congratulations on the hosting of the IKGA European Seminar 2026 in Switzerland, and to express my gratitude and respect to European Block Chief Hanshi Ingo and Swiss Branch Chief Shihan Erik Golowin.
I offer my sincere thanks to the instructors and members participating in this annual European Seminar.
This seminar is highly valued not only for the improvement of technical skills but also as an event that fosters the development of Karate-do in the region and deepens the bonds between us.
I hope that all participants will create wonderful memories and utilize this opportunity to elevate their technical proficiency.
Last year, the IKGA and JKGA jointly hosted the 8th Global Championship in Japan.
As President of both organizations, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the officials, referees, competitors, supporters, and all those who provided assistance from the participating countries.
I am grateful that the championship was a success thanks to everyone's cooperation. I would also like to take this opportunity to apologize for any shortcomings or inconveniences that may have occurred during the event.
It has been decided that the next championship will be held in Hungary in 2029.
We plan to make it a grand success with your warm support and cooperation, and I ask for your understanding and assistance in this endeavor.
IKGA President
Goshi Yamaguchi
Many years have passed since we have had the opportunity to conduct an annual IKGA seminar in Switzerland. We are delighted therefore to welcome you to the 38th European IKGA Gashuku 2026 here in the wonderful town of Magglingen.
We are very thankful that the Swiss branch under the leadership of Shihan Erik Golowin and his management team have taken upon themselves to organize this prestigious event. I understand that the Swiss members have given a lot of their time and effort to make this year’s gathering a success.
On behalf of the European I.K.G.A. it is my great pleasure and privilege to extend a warm welcome to all our European, and non- European participants.
Recognizing that attendance involves both significant travel and juggling tight schedules, serves as a reminder to us all just how important these annual events are and how much they mean to us. We have all chosen to be part of the I.K.G.A. because of our mutual passion for Go-Ju kai Karate–do, and it is because of this passion and dedication that enables us all to come together as one and the energy we create as one, allows us to deepen our friendship with each other and increase the understanding of our art.
It is my sincere hope and wish that these important and instructive annual IKGA gatherings will continue to happen well into the future and for generations to come. In order for this vision to become a reality it cannot not only depend on a few unselfish and dedicated individuals alone. It can only be accomplished through collective efforts and thereby becoming a shared goal for all the dojo leaders, Sensei’s and Shihan’s. It is therefore highly important that we all to attend and support these seminars as much as possible.
It is not possible to finish this welcome message without extending a warm welcome to Saiko Shihan, Hanshi Peter Brandon and the Japanese delegation. I think I speak for all of us that we feel heartfelt gratitude towards Saiko Shihan. For forty- six remarkable years, he has continually poured his knowledge into us, given himself without reservation. Saiko Shihan has pointed the way, but the physical journey depends entirely on our own drive.
Last but certainly not least I would to take this opportunity to extend a heartfelt thank you to Peter Brandon Hanshi. I deeply appreciate your unwavering commitment, tireless efforts and all the hard work you have done throughout many years to support the IKGA generally and specifically IKGA Europe.
In conclusion, I hope all participants return to their home countries with valuable new insights gained from this seminar.
Sincerely yours,
I.de Jong
IKGA Vice President
Bloc Director Europe
Magglingen Switzerland the 38th European IKGA seminar 2026
On behalf of IKGA Switzerland, I warmly welcome you to Magglingen.
It is a great pleasure and an honour to host this European Seminar. We are especially grateful that, under the leadership of Saiko Shihan Goshi Yamaguchi and Hanshi Ingo de Jong, instructors and karate practitioners from across Europe have come together to deepen their practice of Goju-Kai Karatedo.
Karate unites people across generations, cultures, and borders. It brings together Eastern tradition and European cultural heritage, creating a community built on respect, trust, and friendship. Over the decades, this shared legacy has been passed from one generation to the next.
With a history of around sixty years in Europe, Goju-Kai Karate remains a young cultural heritage. It is our responsibility to preserve its values, develop them further, and demonstrate their contribution to society. Every European Seminar is another step on this shared journey.
I wish you inspiring training, meaningful encounters, and new insights that strengthen your lifelong path in Karate.
Should you need any assistance during the seminar, please do not hesitate to approach the Swiss organising team. We will be happy to help.
Welcome to Switzerland, and enjoy a memorable and successful seminar.
Erik
Golowin
Country Manager of Switzerland
Where Tradition Meets the Future
