INTERNATIONAL OKINAWAN CULTURAL EDUCATION FOUNDATION
A 501(c)(3) Non Profit Foundation
GIVING BACK
OUR MISSION
Who We Are
The concept of the IOCEF was initially envisioned in 2012 after several Okinawans and Okinawa karate masters visited the Ten Chi Jin Dojo. With the persuasion of Higaonna Morio Sensei Hanshi, an Okinawa cultural living treasure, together we set the idea in motion and took it from concept to reality. Present at that initial meeting were Dan Smith of the Seibukan, Eric Higaonna son of Higaonna Morio Sensei, Shimabukuro Zenpo Sensei founder of the Seibukan and at that time President of the Rengokai, David Chambers of Classical Fighting Arts magazine and Mickey Brock the eventual founder of the IOCEF. In essence we aim to provide a cultural experience to bridge Okinawan culture to the West, fostering cultural appreciation and understanding while nurturing children, teens and adults through immersion in our programs. Through that immersion wonderful individuals are created adding value to our community as a whole. We have two objectives. One is to be totally debt free and two is to be financially sound so that we can do even more in our community by giving to and helping worthy causes. Causes such as Toys for Tots, community clothing closets and food pantries, St Jude, scholarships to those in need and anything else that warrants our help in our local and extended community. Our founder has been doing this with his personal resources for over forty years. From the moment we started our work, we understood that by working together we could create something special. That is why we ultimately decided to launch the IOCEF. We strive daily to make a positive impact on those we serve.
OUR PROGRAMS
New Ten Chi Jin Dojo Build Updated
02-20-2026
Newest Pics Click Right
Training and Events
We have had many events over the years, in concert with Classical Fighting Arts magazine, featuring the best karate masters on Okinawa such as Kuramoto Sensei above. Our next event is scheduled for June 4-7, 2026 at the new Ten Chi Jin Dojo with Kuramoto Sensei and Yonezato Sensei, both from the honbu dojo of the TOGKF and Higaonna Morio Sensei.
Traditional Dance
There are three types of dances under the umbrella of Ryukyuan dance: traditional dance, zo dance, and creative dance. Traditional dance was performed on stage for imperial envoys from China. There are four types of traditional dances: rojinodori (conducted by elderly married couples), wakashuodori (conducted by young boys), nisaiodori (conducted by young men), and onnaodori (performed by women).
Zo dance is a performance that gained popularity after Okinawa became part of Japan, and it captures the culture and feelings of common citizens. Creative dance is the category used for modern Okinawan dance, and does not have a codified set of rules.
Ryukyuan dance was designated a National Important Intangible Cultural Property in 2009.
Eisa Drumming
Eisa drumming is a key component of the traditional Okinawan folk dance known as Eisa, which is performed during the Obon festival to honor ancestors. The dance features various types of drums, including the large ōdaiko and smaller shimedaiko and paarankuu, creating a vibrant and lively rhythm that accompanies the dancers.
Etiquette
Etiquette is something that our students learn and practice daily. From bowing properly to how to speak to and treat others, nothing is more important than the lessons learned here.
Event Calendar
Donations and Grants
If you would like to be a part of our endeavors to build up those in our community, please consider donating here. If you would like more information before doing so please call the director of this non profit privately at (706) 260-8591.
Contact Us
Address
200 Nix Road
Varnell, GA 30756
Contact
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri
4:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Saturday
9:00 am - 12:30 pm
Sunday
Closed