Ashihara Karate International is a dynamic and independent martial arts organisation, founded and developed by Kaicho Hoosain Narker together with the support of dedicated Branch Chiefs worldwide.

Our Origins

On 2 September 1980, Hoosain Narker, together with a small group of students, established a dojo in Retreat, Cape Town, South Africa. The training at that time was rooted in the powerful Kyokushin style, with influences from Shotokan, Shukokai, and Taekwondo. The dojo, originally called Oyama Karate Dojo Kyokushinkai, would later become the Ashihara S.A. International Honbu (Headquarters).

After years of training in Kyokushin, Kaicho and his students sought a deeper, more practical approach to karate—one that prioritised self-defence over rigid tradition. This journey led them to Ashihara Karate, a system created by the late Grandmaster Hideyuki Ashihara, who refined Kyokushin techniques with influences from street-fighting strategies and Aikido’s evasive movements. His innovations gave rise to the unique Sabaki method and the introduction of Fighting Kata, revolutionising the way karate was practised.

Honouring Our Teachers

Ashihara Karate International acknowledges the great masters who shaped our path. We are indebted to Mas Oyama Sensei, the legendary founder of Kyokushin, for his indomitable budo spirit. Gratitude is also extended to Ferhat Ozsert Sensei (Turkey), Shihan David Cook (International Budo Kai), Ivan Zavetchanos Sensei (Australia), William Quantoi, and many others who offered guidance and support in the formative years. Above all, we honour Kancho Hideyuki Ashihara, whose vision created “The Way” we follow today.

A Modern Approach, Rooted in Tradition

Ashihara Karate International blends traditional values with modern training methods. While discipline, Kata, and Kihon remain central, they are practised with a clear focus on practicality and effectiveness. Our system avoids being bound by unnecessary traditions, allowing space for innovation, sports science, and a teaching method that delivers results in less time.

With over 40 years of experience, Kaicho Hoosain Narker has studied under numerous masters across different styles, believing that true understanding comes only from first-hand experience. His leadership, together with the Technical Advisory Committee, ensures that our training system continues to evolve while staying true to the principles of martial effectiveness and self-development.

Growth of the Organisation

Ashihara Karate South Africa was formally established in 1985 as the art spread beyond Cape Town. By 1993, it had expanded internationally, giving birth to Ashihara Karate International (A.K.I.). Today, A.K.I. dojos exist across the globe, united by shared standards, values, and respect for the Ashihara legacy.

To maintain high quality and harmony, membership remains selective. Only well-organised dojos with solid technical standards are accepted, regardless of size. Each new dojo undergoes a careful process of integration, ensuring that the transition to Ashihara Karate International preserves both quality and unity.

Our Vision

Ashihara Karate International stands as a living, evolving martial arts system—one that values results over ritual, function over form, and character over competition. Our goal is to provide practitioners with a path that is effective in self-defence, enriching in discipline, and empowering in life.

Osu!