The first part of the Kodokan Judo Summer Course 2026 began on 11 July and will continue until 18 July. The eight-day programme is centred on kata, giving dan-grade judoka an opportunity to deepen their understanding of judo principles, instruction and long-term technical study.
The opening day included the commencement ceremony, a lecture, Seiryoku Zenyo Kokumin Taiiku and Itsutsu-no-Kata. The programme then moves through Nage-no-Kata, Katame-no-Kata, Kime-no-Kata, Ju-no-Kata, Kodokan Goshin-jutsu and Koshiki-no-Kata.
The Kodokan states that kata is an essential field of study for dan holders and an important part of promotion standards. A kata demonstration will be held on the final day, with participants generally performing both the tori and uke roles.
The course is primarily open to male and female dan-grade judoka. Participants who attend at least seven days will receive a completion certificate. By bringing seven kata disciplines together in one intensive programme, the course continues the Kodokan tradition of treating kata as a central part of technical education, promotion and judo culture.
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