Martial artists from 13 countries gather in Hua Hin for Gasshuku 2026

Martial artists from 13 countries gathered in Hua Hin for a five-day international training camp featuring several styles of karate, Muay Thai, Pekiti Tirsia Kali and yoga.

Gasshuku 2026 was held from 1 to 5 July at the King of Muay Thai gym, with between two and five training activities taking place each day.

Participants travelled from Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, France, Italy, Russia, Brazil, the Netherlands, the United States, England, Ireland, Japan and Thailand.

The event was organised following an idea developed by John Oliver Sensei, chief instructor of the Wado Karate Federation in Hua Hin.

John previously hosted a Wado Karate Gasshuku in Hua Hin in 2024, which was attended by karate practitioners from England, Scotland, Spain, Jamaica and China, as well as local students.

A volunteer committee was later formed to expand the programme and include a wider range of martial arts practised in Hua Hin.

Training sessions included Wado Ryu, Shotokan, Shorin Ryu and Ishin Ryu/Shiai karate, as well as Pekiti Tirsia Kali, Muay Thai and yoga.

The Japanese term “gasshuku” translates as “lodging together” or “training camp” and commonly refers to an intensive, multi-day seminar during which participants train and spend time together.

Organisers selected the King of Muay Thai gym as the venue after deciding that the Wado Karate Federation dojo was not large enough to accommodate the event. Coaches from the gym also led the Muay Thai sessions.

British karate coach Ticky Donovan OBE attended during the weekend. The 10th Dan instructor, who led British and English national teams for more than three decades, also presented a 6th Dan grade to one of the senior participants.

The event was run on a self-financing, not-for-profit basis, supported by three sponsors and a small participation fee to cover expenses.

“Gasshuku Hua Hin Thailand 2026 has been a successful event,” John said. “I am thoroughly pleased to have seen so many martial artists in one area training in various disciplines.”

He also thanked the King of Muay Thai gym for hosting the event.

Organisers said planning for Gasshuku 2027 was already under way.