The UC Berkeley Karate Club practices traditional Japanese Wado Kai karate
under the direction of Sensei Kirk Hewett and Technical Advisor Hidetaka Abe.
Karate-do, or “the way of the empty hand,” is a Japanese martial art which primarily focuses on striking using punches, kicks, elbow and knee strikes, and open-handed techniques.
The UC Berkeley Karate Club was founded in 1965, taught by Sensei Hidetaka Abe from 1967-2025, and is now headed by Sensei Kirk Hewett, fostering a cooperative and friendly atmosphere for the pursuit of martial arts excellence. We are affiliated with the Japan Karatedo Federation Wado-Kai, and we are a member of the UC Berkeley Martial Arts Program.
All are welcome – no previous experience necessary! Stop by any time for a free lesson and/or to learn more about the club. You can train with the club for free for up to two weeks – no fees or registration required. If you have a gi (karate uniform), wear it; if not, gym clothes are fine!
Membership is open to Cal students, faculty, alumni, as well as members of the local Bay Area community. We also welcome karate practitioners of all styles and levels.