Kyokushin Karate Zurich

The Beginnings (2008–2015)

Searching for the right training space, the dojo moved several times — first near the Radiostudio, then to Albisriederplatz, and finally to Escher-Wyss-Platz. Each location had its own advantages — former students still recall that the trip to Baden was sometimes even shorter than crossing the city of Zurich itself. During this time, Sensei Ciril developed his own teaching style by combining karate with what he learned during his medical studies.

A Difficult Decision

After finishing his studies, Sensei Ciril began working shifts at hospitals, and regular training was no longer compatible with that schedule. None of the students were ready yet to take over the dojo, so in 2015 the difficult decision was made to close Shinkyokushin Karate Zurich. Students looked for alternatives in the city but found nothing comparable — some paused their training, while others took on the longer commute to dojos further away, such as in Obfelden or Sirnach.

A New Beginning in Baden (since 2018)

It took three years before Sensei Ciril found the support for a fresh start: together with Carla Sensei and the dojo's other founding members — Honmatsu Sabrina Bandinu, Birgit Blaser, Loris Meier and Aline Rey — Okawa Dojo in Baden was founded in 2018. Many students from the Zurich years found their way to Baden from day one and still train there with enthusiasm today, under the guidance of Sensei Ciril and his team of instructors.

Not in the city of Zurich itself anymore — Okawa Dojo in Baden grew out of the former Shinkyokushin Karate Zurich. Many of our members still travel from Zurich for training today.

Take the train to Baden or Wettingen station, then it's a short walk to Neuenhoferstrasse 101. You'll find the exact directions and current class schedule on our contact page.

Come train with us — even from Zurich

Two free trial classes, once a month. No obligation — comfortable sportswear is all you need.