INTERNATIONAL OKINAWAN CULTURAL EDUCATION FOUNDATION
A 501(c)(3) Non Profit Foundation
Bring Okinawan Culture To Life - Right Here In Your Community
Authentic karate, traditional dance, and cultural education for kids, teens, and adults in Varnell, GA.
OUR MISSION
Were Building Better People Through Culture...
The IOCEF is a nonprofit foundation dedicated to one thing: bringing the rich traditions of Okinawa to the West — and using them to build stronger, more grounded individuals.
Through karate, traditional dance, drumming, and cultural education, we help children, teens, and adults develop discipline, respect, and a genuine connection to something bigger than themselves.
Every dollar we raise goes back into the community — from scholarships and food pantries to Toys for Tots and beyond. We've been doing this work for over 40 years, and we're just getting started.
Support Our Mission!
OUR PROGRAMS
"Programs That Build Character, Not Just Skills"
Learn Karate The Way It Was Meant To Be Taught...
No sport shortcuts. No watered-down curriculum. Just karate as it was designed — to build you from the inside out.
Training and Events
Train With The Best Straight From Okinawa...
We host world-class seminars featuring master instructors from Okinawa, in partnership with Classical Fighting Arts magazine. These aren't just workshops — they're rare opportunities to train with living legends of the art.
Traditional Dance
A Living Artform Passed Down For Centuries...
Ryukyuan dance is more than performance — it's history in motion. Originally performed for Chinese imperial envoys, these dances carry the stories, values, and spirit of Okinawan culture. Our students learn traditional forms, connect with a rich cultural heritage, and perform with purpose and pride.
Ryukyuan dance was designated a National Important Intangible Cultural Property in 2009.
Eisa Drumming
Feel The Rhythm Of Okinawa...
Eisa drumming is at the heart of Okinawan folk tradition — performed during the Obon festival to honor ancestors and celebrate community. Students learn to play the ōdaiko, shimedaiko, and paarankuu drums while becoming part of something deeply meaningful.
Etiquette
Respect Isn't Just A Rule Here - It Is A Practice...
From the moment students walk through the door, they learn how to carry themselves with respect — how to bow properly, how to speak to others, how to show up in the world. These lessons last a lifetime.
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
206 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