Japan Karate-Do Ryobukai in Bedfordshire, UK and Dubai, UAE.
The style of Shindō Jinen-Ryū and the teachings of Yasuhiro Konishi Soke (1893 to 1983)
Shindo Jinen Ryu
Konishi Soke believed that if you walk a morally correct path in this life, then you are naturally following the divine way. If you train in karate in a natural way and master your body, you will expand your knowledge and experience, and establish a solid foundation for naturally living a morally correct life. And so, his style in 1933, on the recommendation of Morihei Ueshiba Sensei and Shinto scholar Danjo Yamaguchi came to be Shindō Jinen-ryū Karate-Jutsu (“godly, natural style, complete empty-handed way”)
Gichin Funakoshi, Genwa Nakasone, Kenwa Mabuni, Yasuhiro Konishi, Kenei Mabuni. Tokyo, Japan 1928 
Yasuhiro Konishi and Choki Motobu
About
Yamakai was originally formed by Sue Sylvester and Stephen Marriott in November 2002 and was known as the Silsoe Karate Club. However, following the split from TASK in October 2004, the club was renamed Yamakai (Mountain Association) Karate Club and affiliated to SKIF, headed by Hirokazu Kanazawa Kancho, 10th Dan.
The name Mountain Association was chosen as we felt it was appropriate as Kanazawa Kancho incorporates the symbol of a mountain in his signature.
In 2015 the dojo affiliated to the JKR-UK. Stephen Marriott’s work took him to Dubai, UAE and the Yamakai dojo was left in the capable hands of its members. Simon Oliver Sensei teaches there every Monday evening.
Stephen is looking forward to affiliating his next dojo in the UAE to the JKR.
Flitton JKR Dojo 
Dubai EK Dojo 
Flitton JKR Dojo
Blog
Remembering John van Weenen – (1941-2026)
I’m sorry to hear of John van Weenen’s passing.
Like many others, my karate journey began at TASK (Traditional Association of Shotokan Karate), where I first trained under his wife Jane and later under John’s instruction. Those early years played a significant role in shaping not only my karate career but also many of the values and disciplines that stay with me to this day.
John guided and supported my progression through the ranks, eventually grading me to Sandan (3rd Dan Black Belt). Reaching that milestone was the result of years of dedicated training, and John’s guidance, patience, and commitment were instrumental in helping me achieve it.
What I remember most about John was his dedication to his students. He invested his time and energy in developing not just skilled martial artists, but individuals who understood the importance of discipline, perseverance, respect, and continuous self-improvement. His influence extended far beyond the dojo, leaving a lasting impact on the many people fortunate enough to train under him.
Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for the strong foundation he helped build during the formative years of my karate journey. The lessons he taught and the standards he set have remained with me throughout the years.
John’s legacy lives on through the countless students whose lives he touched and the karate community he helped build. He will be remembered not only as an exceptional instructor but also as a mentor who inspired generations of martial artists.
My heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Rest in peace, Sensei John. Your guidance and contribution to karate will not be forgotten. Oss!
Remembering John van Weenen 1941 – 2026
I’m sorry to hear of John van Weenen’s passing Like many others, my karate journey began at TASK (Traditional Association of Shotokan Karate), where I first trained under his wife Jane and later under John’s instruction. Those early years played a significant role in shaping not only my karate career but also many of the …
9th World Budosai 2023
Traditional Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Federatio (TOGKF) Back in August I was lucky enough to attend the TOGKF 9th World Budosai in Naha, Okinawa as the UAE representative. The last time I trained in Okinawa was back in 2019 at the World Gishiki (IOGKF 40th Anniversary). This year I encountered several challenges. The first was finding …
Kaicho Kiyoshi Yamazaki 1940 – 2023
16th August 1940 – 28th August 28 2023 Ryobu-Kai International: It is with profound sadness that the Japan Karate Do Ryobu-Kai International Yudanshakai Executive Council (IYEC) informs you that Kaicho Kiyoshi Yamazaki (9th dan JKR, 8th dan JKF) passed away on 28th August, at approximately 8:00pm Pacific Time. For anyone who has been fortunate enough …
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