Reigning men's world kata champion Ryo Kiyuna took gold on the opening day in Okinawa ©Xavier Servolle/WKF

"Photo_Gallery"

Kiyou Shimizu of Japan took gold in the women's kata event ©Xavier Servolle/WKF

Sandra Sanchez Jaime was crowned grand champion despite defeat in the final ©Xavier Servolle/WKF

The men's kata proved to be one of the most popular events with the crowd today ©Xavier Servolle/WKF

The kata discipline got the event in Okinawa off to a serene start ©Xavier Servolle/WKF

Damian Quintaro of Spain was crowned men's grand champion after winning bronze in the men's kata ©Xavier Servolle/WKF

Kumite elimination and semi-final contests also took place today ©Xavier Servolle/WKF

The event in Okinawa is the first to be held since karate was recommended for inclusion at Tokyo 2020 ©Xavier Servolle/WKF

The day's action came after a short Opening Ceremony was held ©Xavier Servolle/WKF

The ceremony involved a cultural segment as well as speeches from the officials in attendance ©Xavier Servolle/WKF