Nishimura Takaatsu Shihan is the founder and former Chief Instructor of JKA Australia. He began karate training as a teenager in 1958 in Japan. Due to over 60 years of training, international recognition for services in conducting seminars, specialist teaching and networking with the Japanese Karate Association in Tokyo, Japan, his far reaching contribution is embedded in the Australian karateka spirit. He has taught overseas in Greece before establishing karate dojos in Melbourne, Australia. JKA Australia now has several dojos located in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia.

Nishimura Shihan’s comprehensive knowledge in JKA Shotokan karate techniques, theory and practices has notably established his credentials as one of Australia’s highest ranking leaders in organisational administration management and karate knowledge concerning application and techniques. His reputation as one of the finest instructors, assessors and judges is notably established with his peers in Japan and Australia.

His qualifications were internationally certified from JKA, Japan, Tokyo, headquarters. Nishimura Shihan was an international accredited instructor. In December 2016 he was appointed to the position of Director of the JKA Asia-Oceania Region.

Over the years, his commitment and passion has seen contributions by personal involvement in competing, judging and coaching competitions on a global scale. Numerous karate awards and teaching acknowledgement concerning specialist knowledge in kata (forms) and kumite (fighting) has placed Nishimura Shihan as a leading authority on karate on a national and international level.

Many of Australia’s karate instructors have been either directly taught, attended seminars or gained higher qualifications and accreditation due to Nishimura’s direct involvement in sharing knowledge and assisting in promoting karate as a lifelong process of learning. He dedicated and promoted the art of karate-do on a global level. His love and passion for karate is embedded in his daily life in upholding the authentic, traditional values of JKA Shotokan karate and continually strives to promote the philosophy and spirit of Shotokan Karate.

Nishimura Shihan sadly passed away in October 2021, aged 76. He is survived by his wife Robyn, his 4 children, and grandchildren.

Nishimura Shihan will forever be remembered as a humble, generous man and a terrific leader who inspired many to fulfil their goals, not just with karate but also in their personal lives. He was truly one of JKA’s greatest treasurers and he will be missed dearly. We, at JKA Australia, will continue to strive to promote and practice JKA karate the way he had taught us.

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