Matsubayashi Furin Karate Dojo

Perfect Sunday morning! 8:00-11:00 practice as usual.

And what di we do when the weather intimidates is?!
Yes, that's right! We practice outside! It has been years we are using this spot in the MeerLAND park.

For the last 4 years additionally to my dojo, I also teach karate at work during the lunch.

Till June, the place is not available. They decided to make some renovations. So, we found a solution - The Changing Room!

Where there is a Will, there is a Way"

Back home in Eindhoven… and already missing Okinawa.

This was only my second visit, but it made something very clear to me: how fortunate I am to be guided, mentored, and taught by Tamaki Sensei.

I am deeply grateful to Makino Sensei, Tokashiki Sensei, Esu Sensei, and many others for their warmth, support, and friendship. It truly felt like visiting far relatives - relationships built through shared practice. I am thankful to Figgiani sensei for the unconditional support again.

Okinawa is not only about techniques. It is about continuity. You don’t just train there - you step into a living tradition. For a moment, you are allowed to be part of it.

The shared meals, the conversations, the stories… even the smallest gestures carry meaning. That last dinner will stay with me forever. The stories, the history, every word spoken - it all matters.

Now I return with a strong sense of connection… and responsibility. Carrying a piece of Okinawa back to Eindhoven.

...and after flying from Tokyo over Canada, Greenland and Northen Europe i am in Helsinki, Finland. First time ever! It is 11°C now and windy. I am not dressed for this... 😀

Yesterday was the day!
Entire afternoon spent in Shuri-jo (Shuri castle). In the evening we had a great dinner with Tamaki sensei arranged by Makino-sama and his wife Toshimi-sama. Very warm atmosphere and family-like vibe. Neither language barrier, nor age difference, nothing could stop us from communication and finding tons of common points if view on karate and life. It was a meeting of soul mates.
Thank you my dear hosts and teachers.
I came back to my apartment super excited. Barely slept...
That was the day to remember!

HARA HACHI BU. The training is over.
Tomorrow is the relaxing day.

My trip to Okinawa is coming to its final days. Mixed feelings. I miss home. But love Okinawa! But I miss home... but... you get it.