About ETKU / European member off ITKF
European Traditional Karate Union (ETKU) is the European home of Traditional Karate based on the teaching, philosophy and technical standards established by Hidetaka Nishiyama.
ETKU brings together national organizations, instructors and athletes from across Europe who share a common commitment: to preserve and develop Traditional Karate as a martial art rooted in discipline, respect, technical precision and the spirit of Budo.
The origins of our movement date back to 1974, when Nishiyama Sensei helped establish the International Amateur Karate Federation, later renamed the International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF). In 1985, the organization adopted the name ITKF in order to clearly distinguish Traditional Karate from the growing number of modern sport karate systems.
Throughout his life, Nishiyama Sensei worked to protect the original values of karate-do: strong fundamentals, correct body mechanics, mental discipline and character development. Traditional Karate, as taught by Nishiyama, is more than competition. It is a lifelong path of self-development based on the principles of technique, etiquette, responsibility and continuous improvement.
Following the passing of Nishiyama Sensei in 2008, the international structure of Traditional Karate continued through regional organizations. ETKF today with the changed name ETKU represents the European continuation of this heritage and works to maintain the technical standards, educational system and spirit established by the original ITKF.
Today, ETKU supports the growth of Traditional Karate throughout Europe by:
• organizing European championships, seminars and instructor courses
• coordinating technical standards and dan examinations
• supporting national federations and member countries
• promoting youth development and international cooperation
• preserving the philosophy and educational values of Traditional Karate
ETKU believes that Traditional Karate should remain faithful to its original purpose: not only to produce strong competitors, but to develop strong people.
Our mission is to unite Europe through Traditional Karate and to carry the legacy of Nishiyama Sensei into future generations.
