It is with profound sadness that I inform you that Sensei Hidetaka
Nishiyama has passed away.
Nishiyama Sensei defined traditional karate. He has devoted his life in
revealing to the world the wonders of this traditional martial arts. He
has long been recognized as the leader in promulgating the practice of
this treasure of Japanese culture, well beyond national borders, race or
creed. Sensei was tireless in promoting the use of traditional karate
as the "do" for expanding the human mental and physical potential, and
he inspired in his students the eagerness to constantly seek knowledge.
For those of us who have been fortunate to train with him, Sensei is
simply known as the best teacher in tradtional karate, or the best
teacher, period. He taught by example, never failing to push for
perfection, then more than perfection. In the process, many of us have
come to uncover our own potential, and henceforth achieved life's goals
that we previous thought impossible.
Nisihiyama Sensei was one of the founders of Japan Karate Association.
He also founded the American Amateur Karate Federation and International
Traditional Karate Federation. Knowing Nishiyama Sensei, I think that
it would have been equally important to him, if not more so than mere
accolades, to carry his teachings in our heart and in our mind, and
continue to train and promote this invaluable traditional matial arts as
our way of life, for our well being and for perfection of character.
Please join me in a moment of introspection in memory of Sensei.
Regards,
Alex Tong
