16 Okinawan Karate and Kobudo Experts Receive Cultural Heritage Status

Apr 14, 2026 | News On Japan

NAHA - The Okinawa Prefectural Cultural Properties Protection Council has submitted a recommendation to the prefectural board of education to newly recognize 16 individuals as holders of the intangible cultural property "Okinawan Karate and Kobudo," aimed at preserving the region’s traditional martial arts.

Okinawa Prefecture has previously designated 20 individuals as holders of intangible cultural properties in an effort to ensure the continuation of traditional karate and kobudo practices.

Masaaki Ikemiyagi, one of those to be newly recognized, expressed his determination, saying he hopes to contribute to the further development of traditional Okinawan karate.

Ikemiyagi, chairman of the All Okinawa Karate-do Federation, said: "Thank you very much. It is truly an honor beyond my worth, and I intend to approach this with renewed dedication. Okinawa attracts attention from around the world, so I hope everyone will work together to promote karate."

The additional recognitions are expected to be formally approved around the summer.

Source: 沖縄ニュースOTV

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