Cezch Republic 2024

Travel

Jul 21

Written By Tateki Matsuda

First time in Cezch Republic

- Manager & Speaker -

Coupon Code TATEKI

Summary & Key Takeaways

Summer trip to the Czech Republic: Prague first, then the Meltingpot Forum and Colours of Ostrava at Dolní Vítkovice.
In Prague, my friend Jan "Johnny" Allister showed me the Astronomical Clock (1410), Prague Castle, and Charles Bridge—and I met singer Lucie Bílá.
I trained with the Brothers fitness group under Bulletproof BJJ and hosted a small MMA seminar.
In Ostrava: my workshop "Unlocking Movement's Mysteries" (July 17), my talk "What Does Ultimate Mean?" (July 18), and Yogetsu's two performances.

My Journey Through Prague: Exploring History, Food, and Martial Arts

I visited Prague (Praha) this summer—a city steeped in history, charm, and culture. I was en route to the Meltingpot Forum at Colours of Ostrava, where I'd been invited to speak, while also managing Yogetsu Akasaka, who was performing at the festival. Before Ostrava, I stopped in Prague to catch up with my good friend Jan "Johnny" Allister, whom I met at the previous year's Biohacker Summit in London. A few days in Prague let me experience the city firsthand.

Sightseeing Through Prague's History

Johnny was an excellent host, showing me around New Town and Old Town. Prague blends the medieval with the modern, and walking its streets felt like stepping back in time.

At Old Town Square, the renowned Astronomical Clock stopped me in my tracks. It dates back to 1410—the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest still running. Watching its hands move, I thought about human ingenuity and the passage of time.

We climbed to Prague Castle, where the views sweep across the city—red rooftops unfolding like a living record of its history. Then we crossed the iconic Charles Bridge, a symbol of unity that has stood the test of time.

One thing I couldn't miss: how affordable the beer is in Prague—a point of pride for Czechs. A cold beer in the summer air was one of the trip's simplest, best pleasures.

A true highlight was meeting the legendary Czech singer Lucie Bílá. She was incredibly kind and even gifted me a handmade accessory—a keepsake I'll treasure.

Embracing the Local Cuisine

As a biohacker I usually avoid gluten, but my philosophy is "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." Travel is a special occasion, so in Prague I went all in on traditional Czech cuisine. The standout: svíčková na smetaně, beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce. Rich, hearty, unforgettable. You can't travel a country like the Czech Republic without eating its food—even when it strays from my usual diet.

Tateki Matsuda Buretproof BJJ — BJJ at Buretproof BJJ

Martial Arts in Prague

Beyond sightseeing and food, I connected with Prague's martial arts scene. Johnny is part of a men's fitness group called Brothers, which trains MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). I joined one of their classes and trained under Bulletproof BJJ, where Johnny's professor teaches.

I also hosted a small MMA seminar for the Brothers group, sharing techniques and experience. Being welcomed into such a passionate community of martial artists was humbling. Their energy and dedication reminded me that martial arts brings people together anywhere in the world.

Next Stop: Ostrava

After a few days of exploring, training, and soaking in Prague's vibe, it was time to move on. I boarded a long-distance train from Prague Central Station toward Ostrava for the Meltingpot Forum and Colours of Ostrava. Prague was an incredible start—I left with a renewed appreciation for its history, culture, and people.

My Time in Ostrava: Melting pot Forum, Colours Festival, and Supporting Yogetsu Akasaka

From Prague I arrived in Ostrava for the Meltingpot Forum and the renowned Colours of Ostrava music festival. The venue was stunning: Dolní Vítkovice, a UNESCO World Heritage industrial site. The steel backdrop gave the festival's modern energy a historical weight you could feel.

Workshop: Unlocking Movement's Mysteries

My first engagement was a workshop titled "Unlocking Movement's Mysteries," on the Good Life Stage on July 17th, 2024. For 90 minutes we dug into how movement shapes wellbeing, physically and mentally. I guided participants through exercises for mobility, posture, and body awareness—as an MMA fighter and biohacker, functional movement is where health starts for me.

The focus was practical: techniques you can fold into a daily routine. Attendees dove in, and the session sparked real conversations about movement, biohacking, and optimal health. Watching people apply the concepts on the spot was the reward.

Speaking at the Meltingpot Forum

On July 18th, I took the Vitesco Gamechangers stage for my talk, “What Does Ultimate Mean?”—the philosophy behind pushing human limits, in sport, personal development, and daily life. Drawing on MMA and biohacking, I broke down the mental, physical, and emotional parts of chasing what we call "ultimate."

The audience ranged from fitness enthusiasts to tech innovators, and the room was electric. The talk opened deep discussions about how we define success and excellence in a world that always demands more. I was honored to join a forum that welcomes bold ideas.

Supporting Yogetsu Akasaka at Colours of Ostrava

Beyond speaking, I was there to support Yogetsu Akasaka, the Buddhist priest and beatboxer whose sets were among the festival's most anticipated. He performed twice—first on the Cacao Stage on July 17th, then on the Fresh Stage on July 18th.

His performances were mesmerizing. Buddhist chants layered with live beatboxing and looped sound built an auditory experience that hit the audience deep. His blend of spirituality and modern soundscapes fit the creative energy of Colours perfectly, drawing big, captivated crowds. Watching his art reach that many people was incredible.

The **Dolní Vítkovice** industrial site, Colours of Ostrava

A Powerful Fusion of Cultures

Colours of Ostrava, with its lineup of global musicians, was the perfect venue for this fusion of ancient and modern art. Supporting Yogetsu while joining the intellectual discourse at the Meltingpot Forum—both at once—was an extraordinary experience.

The Dolní Vítkovice industrial site, with its towering steel structures, added its own dimension. Modern art, music, and culture against that historical backdrop made the event one of a kind.

Accidental encounter ***Petr Pavel President of the Czech Republic*** at Colours of Ostrava

A Memorable Journey

Ostrava was an unforgettable chapter of my summer. Speaking at the Meltingpot Forum, supporting Yogetsu at Colours—days full of learning, collaboration, and connection. The festival's energy plus the forum's depth made for an inspiring stretch.

Looking back, I'm grateful for the chance to share my passion for movement, health, and personal growth with such a vibrant audience. I'm curious where these connections lead next—biohacking, martial arts, or beyond.

Stay tuned for more updates on my travels and experiences.

この投稿をInstagramで見る

Tateki Matsuda(@tatekimatsuda)がシェアした投稿

Heritage Pullover Hoodie, All over Logo | Tateki Tech

from $65.00

Casual and athletic in design, Tateki Tech presents All Over Print pullover in black. It features a Tateki Tech script pattern throughout for signature style. This sporty top features a drawstring hood and the classic allover logo makes a statement. Ribbing at the hem and cuffs adds comfort and shape to this layer.

Detail

All-Over Print Unisex Hoodie has a comfortable relaxed fit, and a fabric that feels soft to the touch thanks to the unique cotton and polyester blend. The brushed fleece inside makes this hoodie a true wardrobe favorite.