Japan is the birthplace of many legendary martial arts, including karate, judo, and jiu-jitsu. In 2026, the country will host a wide variety of exciting martial arts tournaments ranging from international karate championships to Brazilian jiu-jitsu world events.
Whether you're a competitor, martial arts enthusiast, or traveler looking for a unique sporting experience, attending a martial arts event in Japan is unforgettable. Below is a guide to some of the most anticipated martial arts tournaments in Japan in 2026.
Date: April 29, 2026
Location: Yoyogi Gymnasium No. 2, Tokyo
The KWU SENSHI Japan International Tournament is one of the most exciting new martial arts competitions scheduled for 2026. This event blends traditional karate with modern combat sport formats, including full-contact kumite and kickboxing demonstrations.
Highlights include:
Elite karate competitors from around the world
Amateur kickboxing showcase matches
A celebration ceremony honoring tournament champions
This event aims to bring together martial artists globally and will likely become a major annual combat sports event in Tokyo. (kwusenshi.com)
Date: April 26, 2026
Location: Haruno Sports Park Gymnasium, Kochi
The adidas Karate Grand Prix – Fight in Kochi is a major open karate tournament that draws competitors from across Japan and abroad.
Key features:
Open karate and kickboxing divisions
Junior champion classes that qualify athletes for national championships
Spectator-friendly event with free admission
The tournament is organized by the International Seido Karate Federation and serves as a gateway for athletes hoping to compete in the All-Japan Championship series. (thecamp-maa-japan.com)
Dates: March–May 2026 (multiple events)
Location: Komazawa Olympic Park & Yoyogi National Gymnasium
Japan’s grappling scene continues to grow, and 2026 will feature several major Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournaments, including:
Asia Jiu-Jitsu Cup (March 28–29)
Asia Para Jiu-Jitsu Cup (March 27–29)
Sweep Jiu-Jitsu Cup Tokyo (April 25–26)
Eurasian Intercontinental Jiu-Jitsu Championship (May 2–4)
These events attract competitors from across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, making them some of the most international martial arts tournaments held in Japan each year. (asjjf.org)
Dates: July 4–5, 2026
Location: Keio Arena Tokyo
The All-Japan Karate Championship organized by the Japan Karate Association (JKA) is one of the most prestigious karate competitions in the world.
The tournament includes:
Team kumite competitions
Individual championships
Elite Shotokan karate practitioners
For martial arts fans, this event showcases some of the highest technical skill levels in traditional karate. (jka.or.jp)
Dates: September 3–6, 2026
Location: Yoyogi National Gymnasium, Tokyo
The Sport Jiu-Jitsu International Federation (SJJIF) World Championship will bring some of the best grapplers on the planet to Tokyo in 2026.
Expect:
Gi and No-Gi divisions
Youth, adult, and masters divisions
International teams competing for world titles
With thousands of athletes expected, this is one of the largest martial arts tournaments held in Japan in 2026. (asjjf.org)
Japan remains one of the most important countries in the martial arts world. Visitors attending tournaments will experience:
Authentic martial arts traditions
Highly disciplined athletes
World-class venues such as Yoyogi National Gymnasium and Komazawa Olympic Park
Many events are open to spectators, making them a great addition to any Japan travel itinerary.
✅ Pro Travel Tip:
If you're planning to attend a martial arts tournament in Japan, book accommodations early—events in cities like Tokyo and Osaka often attract international competitors and fans.
