Visiting Takinokan Dojo in Verona

On May 23rd, I had the wonderful privilege of visiting Roberto-sensei’s Taki no kan Dojo in Verona, Italy. It was an unforgettable day filled with deep connections and moving moments.

日本語はこちら

🌳 Special Roman Ruins & Lunch in the Shade Our day began with an incredible tour of the "VILLA ROMANA," which requires special permission to enter. One of the dojo students happens to be the head of excavations there, and we received an amazingly exclusive, detailed guided tour. Afterward, we enjoyed a delightful lunch together under the shade of a large tree. The refreshing breeze and warm conversations truly brought peace to my heart.

🥋 Passionate Training & Promotional Exam In the afternoon, we held a technical seminar. Following that, I had the precious opportunity to witness the promotional exam for nearly 70 children. The seriousness and intense focus of the children were so palpable it made me tense up with respect. I was astonished to see such young children, even younger than primary school age, demonstrating so many techniques alongside the older kids. I also had the honor of guiding them on the correct etiquette and handling during the belt presentation. At the end of the ceremony, the children swarmed around me, asking me to sign their belts. I was both deeply humbled and overjoyed—it is a memory I will cherish forever.

🍽️ Incredible Hospitality & Gastronomy In the evening, we visited a famous restaurant with the dojo members and enjoyed the best risotto I have ever had in my life. Sharing the best risotto while having wonderful conversations with my Budo friends became a deeply memorable and lasting experience.

Previous night, we had a beautiful dinner with Roberto-sensei’s family overlooking a stunning night view from the hilltop.and I cannot thank Pietro-sensei enough for his thoughtful hospitality, including arranging our accommodation near his home and joining us for breakfast.

Roberto-sensei kindly took the time out of his busy schedule to personally guide us through Verona's historic landmarks. Seeing the students passionately learning Budo, and witnessing Roberto-sensei himself taking the lead in everything from preparation to clean-up, filled me with nothing but deepest admiration.

To everyone at Taki no kan Dojo, thank you from the bottom of my heart for such a magnificent time! 🙏✨