CAO

Centro de Artes Orientais (CAO) is a nonprofit cultural institution dedicated to practicing and sharing Eastern arts and culture. After 30 years of continuous activity across a range of disciplines, the organization is preparing for a transition: its founders are creating Fundação Shoto Portugal to focus more closely on Budo, the Japanese term for the martial way. Although CAO is expected to cease operating in its current form, its accumulated knowledge and cultural heritage will inform the new foundation’s work.

CAO’s activities include martial arts such as Aikido, Iaido, Karate, and Kendo, alongside other disciplines including natural agriculture and yoga. The organization also supports regular events and activities, and produces publications, including the Budo chronology, Mon Shoto magazine, and Surya Online. Its activities are organized through locations in Caparica, Almada, Alcochete, Montijo, and Seixal, with international delegations also listed. CAO presents its work as a contribution to the study and refinement of martial values and methods, serving people who wish to follow the Budo path seriously.