An Unprecedented Delegation of Honbu Masters
Casalecchio di Reno became the global epicenter for traditional Japanese martial arts this past weekend, hosting 300 practitioners from 16 countries. The Rensei Taikai, an assembly organized by Shibu Italia, the Italian section of the Dai Nippon Butoku Kai (DNBK), brought together enthusiasts from as far as the United States and Canada to train in aikido, judo, and karate.
A Historic Shift to Italian Soil
The three-day event operated under the direct guidance of 15 Japanese masters from the Honbu, the organization’s governing council. This was a number never reached in similar events hosted abroad. The choice of Italy as a host site was announced by DNBK leadership during their global meeting last year.
Mayor Ruggeri Welcomes Japanese Delegation to Casalecchio
Pietro Paterna, a Casalecchio-based 8th Dan Aikido master, spearheaded local logistics. Marking 30 years of teaching—many of which at the Polisportiva Masi—Paterna oversaw a program that began with a formal reception at the municipal building. There, the Japanese delegation met with Casalecchio Mayor Matteo Ruggeri to commemorate the 160th anniversary of the first treaty between Italy and Japan by planting three cherry trees outside town hall.
“For us, it was a pleasure to welcome them during these three interesting and very intense days,” Mayor Ruggeri said.
Technical Stages and Cultural Exchange
The PalaCabral sports facility functioned as the heart of the event, housing technical stages and intensive lessons led by both Japanese and European masters. Beyond the mats, the cultural exchange included a gala dinner at the Hotel Calzavecchio, highlighted by a performance from the Ocarina Orchestra of Budrio. The final day shifted to public demonstrations, where participating dojos showcased traditional techniques.
Imperial Recognition
The gathering concluded with a formal message from Prince Higashi Fujimi Jiko, an honorary president of the DNBK and a cousin of Emperor Naruhito. The communication emphasized the event’s intent to solidify the presence of traditional Japanese martial arts within the local community.
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