PIONEERS OF OUR KARATE SYSTEM

Takahara Peichin: The Philosopher-Warrior of Okinawan Karate

Takahara Peichin (1683-1760) was a highly revered warrior and is credited with being the first to define the philosophical principles of "Dō" (the Way) in relation to Karate. These principles are:

• Ijo – Compassion
• Katsu – Deep understanding of Karate
• Fo – Dedication and seriousness

Together, they convey the idea that a martial artist has a duty not only to himself but also to his fellow man.

Beyond his philosophical contributions, Takahara Peichin played a pivotal role in shaping Okinawan Karate as the first teacher of Sakugawa Kanga "Tode", who later became known as the "Father of Okinawan Karate." It is also believed that Takahara Peichin was the first to introduce the Naihanchi Kata—one of the most foundational and widely practiced forms in Karate worldwide.

Kusanku: The Chinese Diplomat Who Shaped Okinawan Karate

Kusanku (1720-1790) was a Chinese ambassador from the Qing Dynasty who played a pivotal role in the development of Okinawan Karate. Historical records indicate that he arrived in Okinawa in 1761 at the request of the Ryukyuan King and settled in Kanemura, a village near Naha City.

Following the death of Takahara Peichin, Kusanku became the teacher of Sakugawa Kanga, who later became known as the "Father of Okinawan Karate."

Kusanku’s influence is deeply embedded in Okinawan martial arts, particularly within the Shorin Ryu systems, as many Kata bear his name. He is believed to have been from a high order of military monks, with extensive combative training, and he spent his later years in Okinawa teaching and sharing his knowledge as a Chinese diplomat.

"Tode" Sakugawa: The Bridge Between Old and New Karate

Kanga "Tode" Sakugawa (1733-1815) came from a family with a long lineage of expertise in the Okinawan martial art of Te. His early training began under Takahara Peichin, a respected warrior and scholar.

As a young man, Sakugawa was known for his rebellious nature. One day, he encountered Kusanku, a Chinese diplomat and martial artist, standing on a bridge overlooking the water. Impatient and brash, Sakugawa attempted to push Kusanku aside to cross. However, with a swift sidestep, Kusanku instead sent Sakugawa tumbling into the water.

Emerging humbled and drenched, Sakugawa received a stern lecture from Kusanku on the importance of respecting one's elders. This lesson had a profound impact on him, and he would later emphasize to his own students that understanding "why" we study Karate is just as important as knowing "how" to perform it.

Sakugawa went on to train under Kusanku for several years. After his master's passing, he honored him by developing the first version of the Kusanku Kata, which remains preserved in the Shorin Ryu Shorinkan system to this day.

Beyond Karate, the Sakugawa family was renowned for their expertise with the Bo (long staff). Many of our Bo Kata and techniques trace back to their lineage, including a signature grip-switching method still used in training, known as the "Sakugawa Exchange."

Sokon "Bushi" Matsumura: The Architect of Shuri-Te

Sokon "Bushi" Matsumura (1796-1893) was the first to systemize the art of Shuri-te, the parent martial art from which our style of Karate originates. Born into a prominent family in Shuri, Matsumura was a highly educated scholar and naturally athletic.

As a young boy, he began learning the fundamentals of "Te", which was customary for upper-class youths at the time. According to many historians, he later received formal training under Tode Sakugawa, from whom he learned Bojutsu (staff techniques) and the Kusanku Kata.

Matsumura's reputation as a warrior and strategist led to him becoming both a bodyguard and martial arts instructor for the last three Kings of Okinawa. His role in the Ryukyu royal court took him on official visits to China and Japan, where he studied Chinese Boxing and Japanese swordsmanship.

After retiring from royal service, Matsumura dedicated himself to teaching Karate in Shuri, where he influenced generations of legendary martial artists. Among his most famous students were:
✅ Itosu Yatsutsune (pioneer of modern Karate)
✅ Kentsu Yabu (known as "The Fierce Teacher")
✅ Chomo Hanashiro (credited with first using the term "Karate")
✅ Gichin Funakoshi (founder of Shotokan Karate)
✅ Chotoku Kyan (renowned for his agility and speed)
✅ Nabe Matsumura (his own grandson, who carried on his teachings)

Matsumura is also credited with originating or refining many of the core Kata found in our Shorin Ryu system, including:
🔥 Gojushiho
🔥 Kusanku Dai
🔥 Passai Dai
🔥 Chinto
🔥 Naihanchi Shodan & Nidan

His contributions laid the foundation for modern Karate, making him one of the most influential figures in Okinawan martial arts history.

Yasutsune "Anko" Itosu: The Father of Modern Karate

Yasutsune "Anko" Itosu (1830-1915) is regarded as one of the greatest teachers in the history of Karate. He played a pivotal role in simplifying ancient Kata, creating new forms, and pioneering teaching methods that revolutionized Karate, making it more structured and accessible for future generations. Because of his lifetime dedication to the art, he is often referred to as the "Father of Modern Karate."

Early Life & Training

Born in Shuri village, Itosu began training at an early age under Sokon Matsumura, one of the most influential Karate masters of his time. He later studied under several other notable instructors, possibly including Kosaku Matsumora of Tomari. In addition to his martial arts training, Itosu was well-educated in Chinese and Japanese literature and served as a translator for King Sho Tai, the last ruler of Okinawa, until the monarchy fell in 1879.

Introducing Karate to Public Education

In 1901, Itosu made history by introducing Karate into the Okinawan public school system, marking a turning point for the art. His efforts transformed Karate from a secretive warrior tradition into an accepted method of physical education, emphasizing health, discipline, and spiritual well-being rather than just combat.

Contributions to Karate

Itosu is credited with:
✅ Creating the Pinan Kata series, which are still practiced worldwide today.
✅ Developing Naihanchi Sandan, Passai Sho, and Kusanku Sho Kata.
✅ Modernizing Karate training methods, ensuring the art could be preserved for future generations.

During the Meiji Restoration, many traditional martial arts were being modified to fit the new cultural climate—such as Jujutsu evolving into Judo and Kenjutsu into Kendo. Itosu recognized that Karate needed a similar transformation to gain acceptance by the Japanese government and avoid fading into obscurity. His structured approach ultimately ensured that Tode (early Okinawan Karate) would survive and thrive in modern times.

Itosu’s Legacy

The list of Itosu’s students reads like a who’s who of legendary Karate masters, including:
   Gichin Funakoshi (Founder of Shotokan Karate)
   Chomo Hanashiro (One of the first to use the term "Karate")
   Chotoku Kyan (Founder of multiple Okinawan Karate styles)
   Chosin Chibana (Founder of Shorin Ryu Karate)
   Kentsu Yabu (Pioneer of Karate in mainland Japan)
   Choki Motobu (Renowned for his real-world fighting ability)
   Kenwa Mabuni (Founder of Shito Ryu Karate)
  Shigeru Nakamura (Founder of Okinawan Kenpo)

Without Itosu’s vision and reforms, Karate might not have survived or gained worldwide recognition. His contributions ensured that the art would continue to thrive, making him one of the most influential figures in Karate history.

Chosin Chibana: Preserving the Legacy of Shorin Ryu

Chosin Chibana (1885-1969) was a pivotal figure in the preservation of Shorin Ryu Karate, ensuring that the traditional teachings of Yasutsune "Anko" Itosu were passed on to future generations.

Early Life & Training

Born on June 5, 1885, in the Tottori-chi area of Shuri City, Chibana began his Karate training under Yasutsune "Anko" Itosu in 1900. He remained a dedicated student until Itosu’s passing, preserving and continuing his master's teachings.

Teaching & Spreading Shorin Ryu

In 1920, Chibana opened his first dojo in Tottori-Bori, later expanding to a second location in Kumo-cho. His teachings were temporarily suspended during World War II, but after the war, he resumed instruction in Giho-cho, a section of Shuri City.

By the 1950s, Chibana was not only maintaining his dojo but also serving as the chief Karate instructor for the Shuri police force, further solidifying his reputation as a master of traditional Okinawan Karate.

Recognition & Achievements

Chibana’s impact on Karate was widely recognized, earning him prestigious honors:

[ 1956 – Appointed first president of the Okinawan Karate-Do Association
[ 1957 – Awarded the title of Hanshi (High Master) by the Dai Nippon Butokukai
               (Greater Japan Martial Virtue Association)
[ 1960 – Received the Okinawa Times Sports Award for his contributions to Karate
[ 1968 – Honored with the 4th Order of the Sacred Treasure by the Emperor of Japan

Chibana’s Legacy in Shorin Ryu

Chibana Sensei is credited with:
✅ Creating the three Kihon Kata practiced in Shorin Ryu today.
✅ Formalizing the teaching methods of Kata, ensuring techniques were preserved properly for future generations.
✅ Spreading Shorin Ryu beyond Okinawa, influencing martial artists both in Okinawa and mainland Japan.

Chibana Sensei’s contributions ensured that Shorin Ryu Karate remained true to its origins while continuing to evolve. He dedicated his life to preserving Itosu’s teachings, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire Karate practitioners worldwide.

Shugoro Nakazato Hanshi Judan (1920-2016): A Grand Master of Okinawan Karate

Shugoro Nakazato Hanshi (August 14, 1920 – August 24, 2016) dedicated his life to the martial arts, becoming one of the most influential Karate Grand Masters in history.

Early Training & Leadership

Nakazato Hanshi trained under Chosin Chibana, founder of Shorin Ryu, for nearly twenty years. In 1967, he was awarded the prestigious rank of 9th Dan Hanshi by Chibana Sensei himself. Following Chibana’s passing in 1969, Nakazato Hanshi assumed leadership as the President of the Okinawa Shorin Ryu Shorinkan Karate Do Kyokai and was later promoted to 10th Dan Hanshi.

Global Influence & Promotion of Okinawan Karate

Nakazato Hanshi became renowned worldwide for his dedication to spreading authentic Okinawan Dento (Traditional) Karate. His contributions include:

[ Leading Okinawa’s Karate Delegation – He headed the delegation promoting the first Okinawa Traditional Karatedo and Kobudo World Championships in the U.S.
[ Showcasing Okinawan Karate at the 1996 Olympic Games – At the Atlanta Olympics, Nakazato Hanshi led a historic demonstration of Okinawan Karate, introducing its rich heritage to a global audience.
[ Cultural Recognition – In 2000, the Okinawan Prefectural Board of Education honored him with the title "Kenmukei Bunkazi" (Intangible Cultural Asset), recognizing his efforts in preserving and promoting traditional Okinawan martial arts.

Legacy & Passing the Torch

Nakazato Hanshi played a key role in developing Gorin Kata and trained some of the world’s most respected Karate Masters, including:
   Eddie Bethea
   Eberhard Welch
   Noel Smith
   C.D. Williamson
   Tadashi Yamashita
   Doug Perry

In August 2016, the Karate world mourned the loss of this cultural icon. However, Nakazato Hanshi had the foresight to appoint his son, Minoru Nakazato, as his successor, ensuring the continuation of the Shorin Ryu Shorinkan Association.

Minoru Nakazato Hanshi: Continuing the Tradition

As the current head of Shorin Ryu Shorinkan, Minoru Nakazato Hanshi brings a youthful, energetic presence to the system. His contributions include:

* Refining Kata, Bunkai, & Self-Defense Applications – He emphasizes the fine details in techniques to enhance their effectiveness in real combat.

* Developing & Promoting Okinawan Karate – He played a significant role in overseeing the Karate Kaikan (Karate Hall) in Okinawa.

* Leadership in the Martial Arts Community – Recently appointed as President of the Okinawan Karate-Do Kobudo Association, he continues to preserve and expand the influence of authentic Okinawan Karate worldwide.

Eddie Bethea Kyoshi: A Shorin Ryu Legend

Eddie Bethea Kyoshi, an 8th Degree Black Belt, is a direct student of both Shugoro Nakazato Hanshi and Minoru Nakazato Hanshi. As one of the first-generation black belts in the Shorinkan, he has played a pivotal role in promoting and refining Okinawan Karate worldwide.

A Legacy in Shorinkan Karate

[ Member of the "Magnificent Seven" – One of the first black belts authorized to teach Shorinkan Karate in the United States, Bethea Kyoshi is regarded as one of the finest martial artists in the world.

✈[ Journey to Mastery – His Karate training began in 1966 while serving in the U.S. Air Force, stationed in Okinawa. He credits Karate with giving him discipline, passion, and purpose, shaping both his martial arts career and his life.

A Champion on the Global Stage

✅ Competitive Career Spanning 4 Decades – Bethea Kyoshi’s dominance in tournament Karate is unparalleled:
✅ 3 World Grand Championship Titles
✅ 10 World Karate Champion Division Titles

[ Respected Martial Arts Authority – He is a distinguished member of several elite martial arts organizations, including:
✔ Trias International Society
✔ Professional Karate Commission Elite
✔ USKK Budo Society
✔ USAMA Hawke's Society

A Leading Force in Shorinkan Karate throughout the world!

Today, Bethea Kyoshi serves as one of the primary leaders of Shorinkan Karate in the United States, continuing to inspire and train new generations of Karateka. His dedication, expertise, and passion have left a lasting impact on the global Karate community.