SHORIN RYU SHORINKAN:
A LEGACY OF GREAT KARATE

When you join Franz Karate, you become part of one of the most prestigious and authentic Okinawan Karate systems in the world—Shorin Ryu Shorinkan. This traditional style has been passed down from the earliest pioneers of Okinawan martial arts, making it one of the oldest and most respected Karate systems today.

Our lineage is impeccable, tracing directly back to the foundations of Karate itself. Shugoro Nakazato Hanshi, the founder of Shorin Ryu Shorinkan, was officially recognized by the Japanese government as an "Intangible Cultural Asset" for his dedication to preserving true Okinawan Karate.

Read on to discover the rich history behind the style you’ll be learning and the roots of our martial art.

THE SHORIN RYU SHORINKAN PATCH: A SYMBOL OF EXCELLENCE

The Shorin Ryu Shorinkan patch is one of the most recognized in the martial arts world. Many legendary martial artists, including world champions, martial arts pioneers in the U.S., and military combatives instructors, began their training in our style.

What Does the Patch Represent?

[ The circular shape represents the full cycle of learning—from student to teacher
     and back to student again.
[ The Japanese characters at the bottom read "Shorin Ryu", meaning "Small Pine
     Forest".
[ The larger kanji above read "Shorin Ryu Shorinkan", meaning "Small Pine Forest
     Home"—a tribute to the roots of our style.
[ The Shureimon Gate (red & white) is the main entrance to Shuri Castle, honoring the royal bodyguards who
     developed our Karate system.
[ The smaller kanji inside the gate read "Shu Rei no Kuni", which translates to "Land of Propriety"—reflecting the
     values of respect and discipline in Okinawan Karate.

THE ORIGINS OF OKINAWAN KARATE

Okinawan Karate traces its roots back to the 6th century, with the founding of the Shaolin Temple and the development
 of Chuan Fa (Chinese Martial Arts). Through trade and cultural exchange, the Okinawans absorbed these fighting methods into their indigenous martial art—Uchinadi Ti.

Three Key Schools of Te

Okinawan Karate evolved into three main styles, based on the regions where they developed:
[ Shuri-Te (Focused on speed and mobility)
[ Naha-Te (Emphasized strength and breathing techniques)
[ Tomari-Te (Blended elements of both styles)

These systems later merged to form what we now recognize as modern Karate.

WHAT MAKES SHORIN RYU UNIQUE?

Unlike the sport-focused Karate seen in many schools today, Shorin Ryu prioritizes real-world self-defense.
Our system was originally developed by the royal bodyguards of Okinawa, meaning its techniques are designed for practical protection, not just competition.

Key Features of Shorin Ryu:

✅ Self-Defense First – Practical techniques for real-life situations.
✅ Natural Movements – No exaggerated deep stances or rigid techniques, ensuring joint longevity.
✅ Efficient & Fluid – Emphasizes speed, power, and adaptability, making it ideal for all ages.
✅ Supportive Dojo Culture – We train together, not against each other. The only competition is improving yourself.

At Franz Karate, we honor tradition while maintaining a welcoming and supportive environment. Our goal is to help
every student grow in their Karate journey—no matter their age, background, or experience level.

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