Shorinji Kempo Workshop with British Shorinji Kempo Federation
Come and try out Shorinji kempo!
Shorinji Kempo is a modern Japanese martial art that combines kick-boxing and standup grappling in a practical system of self-defence. It will teach you how to defend against strikes and grabs, and how to use physical principles to overcome larger or stronger opponents.
Shorinji kempo is also based on a philosophy of self-development and mutual cooperation. We practice a short meditation in every session and also study a system of therapeutic massage similar to shiatsu – always popular outside of the dojo!
In this workshop, instructors will show you some basic movements and practical techniques so you can get a flavour of what our broad art has to offer. As part of the experience, you’ll also get to watch an exciting demonstration by members of the British Shorinji Kempo Federation! There will be a 15-minute live demonstration and a 40-minute workshop session!
Please come in clothing that you can easily move in and be ready to get active! This workshop is suitable for beginners from 18 years old.
What to Wear:
To fully enjoy the session, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing like jogging bottoms or leggings that cover the knees.
Health & Safety:
By purchasing a ticket, you confirm that you (or the participant) have no known health conditions or injuries that could pose a risk during training. If you have any concerns, please consult a medical professional before participating.
For the safety of all participants, we reserve the right to turn away anyone on the day if we believe they are unable to take part safely.
Special Notes:
* The adults only workshop is suitable for beginners from 18 years old.
* You will need a separate HYPER JAPAN Festival 2026 ticket for the same date.
Sessions
| 25 Sat | 14:45-15:45 | Saturday Session | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26 Sun | 12:15-13:15 | Sunday Session |
British Shorinji Kempo Federation
Shorinji Kempo was created in Japan in 1947 by Doshin So, a Japanese intelligence operative and accomplished martial artist. It was influenced heavily by his experiences in the second world war and his interest in Buddhist philosophy, as well as the traditional martial arts he learned from his grandfather.
The art was brought to the UK in 1974 by Tameo Mizuno with the direct blessing of Doshin So. Together with a few other early teachers, they formed the BSKF (British Shorinji Kempo Federation) to oversee the teaching and promotion of Shorinji Kempo in the UK.
BSKF has served as a governing body for Shorinji Kempo continuously since, and currently has 14 affiliated clubs operating across the UK.
In 2011 BSKF was also a founding member of the International Kempo Association (IKA), an alliance of independent Shorinji Kempo groups in 10 countries around the globe.
In 2024 Tameo Mizuno (9th dan) retired after 50 years as the federation’s Chief Instructor, handing over the technical leadership to his direct student, Robert Villiers (7th dan).
