Monday, December 10, 2012 by C. Michial Jones
In the spring of 2012, I received word that Nakamoto Kiichi Sensei would be visiting the United States. I immediately made plans to ensure I was present. My student Jason and I made the trip to Northfield, Michigan, to train at the dojo of Peter Carbone Sensei.
The dojo itself was a work of art—a traditional space designed by Nakamoto Sensei himself. Upon entering, we were greeted by Sensei, and after the initial formalities and bowing in, we changed into our do-gi, ready for what we thought would be a standard seminar.
The Unexpected Test
After the formal bow-in, Carbone Sensei approached me with a surprising request: “Sensei would like to have you work with the students on Seiunchin.”
I was shocked. To be asked by a master of Nakamoto’s stature to lead a portion of his seminar is both a high honor and a high-pressure “test.” I agreed, and after Nakamoto Sensei watched and gave his approval of my Seiunchin, he had me continue teaching both Gekisai and Saifa.
Throughout the evening, I taught the seminar under his watchful eye. After each section, he would give me the “OK” and clap. That night, I didn’t sleep a wink; the weight of the responsibility and the adrenaline of the experience kept my mind racing.
The Kobudo of Nakamoto Sensei
The following days shifted focus to Okinawan Kobudo. Nakamoto Sensei is a renowned master of weapons, and we spent hours on:
- Sai: Focusing on the traditional flips, strikes, and blocks.
- Tanbo: Short stick techniques.
- Nunchaku: Mastering the transitions and applications.
Between the physical training, I had the opportunity to engage in deep conversations with Sensei regarding the history of the art. He provided subtle, minor corrections to my kata—the kind of “polishing” that only comes from someone who has spent a lifetime at the source.
The One-on-One: Bunkai and Oyo
The true highlight of the trip occurred on the final day. After the seminar concluded and the other students departed, I was fortunate enough to spend several hours one-on-one with Nakamoto Sensei.
He used this time to delve into the Bunkai (application) and Oyo (advanced variations) of the Goju-Ryu kata. He showed me the “hidden” movements—the devastating joint locks and strikes that are often glossed over in commercial schools. To have a master of his caliber show me these techniques privately was the greatest gift of the trip.
A New Responsibility
Beyond the techniques, this visit solidified a formal relationship. I am deeply honored to serve as Nakamoto Sensei’s representative in North America.
Training with a master like Nakamoto Sensei reminds you that Karate is not just about moving your body; it is about carrying the energy and the intent of those who came before. It was a trip of “good fun,” Greek dinners, and wine-making, but underneath the socialization was the serious business of ensuring the Okinawan flame continues to burn brightly in the West.
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