Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently had the honor of a private karate lesson with Sensei James. I have a year of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience, but I was completely new to karate. It was an incredible experience to be introduced to this art by a true legend of Okinawan karate. Sensei James was welcoming, patient, and deeply knowledgeable. I highly recommend Asato Dojo to anyone—of any age—interested in martial arts and philosophy, or in gaining a deeper understanding of Okinawan culture, history, and tradition.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great Dojo! I have done classes in Gojuryu with both Dan & Andrea who were both amazing with highly skilked teachers for all levels. I highly recommend for any Karate students in Japan. 👊Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. On September 15th, I had the special opportunity to train at the Asato Dojo in Naha Okinawa, the birthplace of Karate – even though I had only registered at very short notice. James Pankiewicz Sensei responded quickly and without complication, and the dojo even provided me with a karate dogi. The training itself was an outstanding experience: Pankiewicz Sensei teaches with impressive expertise, a deep understanding of Karate as well as the physics and dynamics of the body. His ability to convey techniques with precise body awareness makes the training both highly educational and truly inspiring. If I were still in Naha, I would visit this dojo as often as possible. In this sense, it’s not “farewell” but rather “see you again.” どうもありがとうございますPosted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Hemos sido muy bien recibidos en el Dojo, por el Sensei Dan Antonsen (Kobudo) y el Sensei James Pankiewicz (Shorin Ryu). Si visitas Okinawa y practicas kárate, pásate por el dojo y apúntate a alguna de sus clases individuales o grupales. Muy recomendable.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was fascinated at how welcoming and supportive all the instructors and groups in this dojo are. There is a great variety of classes and styles of karate. I joined the classes only for three days, but even within that short period of time Asato dojo felt like home. Thank you everyone I’ve met along the way, especially Dan Sensei, Tamashiro Sensei, and Andrea Sensei (as well as James Sensei I only got to talk to via email, but hopefully will meet in person next time). Totally recommend this dojo for everyone who wishes to practice karate, be if a novice or a more experienced student)Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Training at Asato Dojo in Naha was a deeply memorable and meaningful experience. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with humility and warmth by James Pankiewicz Sensei, whose deep knowledge, clear instruction, and passion for authentic Okinawan Karate made the session both educational and inspiring. The training emphasized precise body mechanics, applied kata, and traditional principles. The instruction was detailed and technical, yet entirely approachable for a visitor — a rare and generous quality. James Sensei also made time for thoughtful explanation of Okinawan history and Karate culture, giving the experience added depth beyond the training itself. Whether you're a dedicated martial artist or a respectful guest looking to train while in Okinawa, I can’t recommend Asato Dojo highly enough. It’s an environment of authenticity, respect, and living tradition. I left feeling both humbled and uplifted — exactly what Okinawan Karate is all about.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was warmly welcomed at the dojo and immediately felt at home. The training was very interesting and highly instructive. Sensei Tamaki explained and demonstrated every technique with great clarity and patience. The Motobu-ryū karate style taught here is truly fascinating and full of depth. I wish I had more time to attend several more classes. When I return to Okinawa, I will definitely come back to train with Sensei Tamaki again. Thank you very much for this wonderful experience!Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thank you James Sensei. I had a 3 day trip to Okinawa and decided to take a karate lesson. I've trained various martial arts before, but not karate. Not familiar with the style, customs and history James gave me a great overview of karate and it's history.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had an amazing trial session with James just three hours before my flight back home. He is an inspiring and patient instructor who explains techniques and the philosophy of Okinawan karate with clarity and passion. Thank you James for making it happen at short notice!Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I trained in karate and kobudo in James Sensei's dojo for around five weeks in 2024 and really learned a lot. James is an excellent teacher who approaches his students with a lot of knowledge and patience and takes them further along the karate path. The atmosphere in the dojo is great and you feel very welcome at all times. I plan to come back next year and am already looking forward to an interesting time. Thomas from GermanyLoad more
Asato Dojo 安里道場
International Fighting Arts Study Centre
