THE ORIGINS OF SHITO-RYU KARATE:

Shito-Ryu, a fusion of Naha-te and Shuri-te, traces its roots to the Okinawan masters who profoundly influenced its founder, Kenwa Mabuni. Let’s explore the lineage of these grandmasters.

Satunuku ‘Tode’ Sakugawa (1733 – 1815)

Tode Sakugawa, born in Shuri, Okinawa, began martial arts training at 17 under Peichin Takahara. Advised by Takahara, Sakugawa trained under Kusanku, a Chinese master, for six years. Credited with forming Bo katas, he played a pivotal role in the development of TE on the Okinawan Islands.

Sokon ‘Bushi’ Matsumura (1797 – 1889)

Matsumura, a prominent figure in Okinawan karate, studied under Tode Sakugawa and later with a Chinese trader named Chinto. He became Chief Tode Instructor for the Royal family of Sho and traveled to China to study Shaolin Gong-fu. Matsumura’s teachings evolved into Shorin-Ryu, passed on to his son Nabi Matsumura and later to Sokon Kohan.

Yasutsune ‘Ankoh’ Itosu (1830 – 1915)

Born in Shuri, Okinawa, Yasutsune Itosu trained under Sokon ‘Bushi’ Matsumura. Instrumental in introducing karate to the public school system, Itosu developed the Pinan kata and reached high technical levels. Gichin Funakoshi, one of his famous students, emphasized Itosu’s physical strength and virtuous character.

Kanryo Higaonna (1853 – 1916)

Grandmaster Kanryo Higaonna, born in Naha, Okinawa, traveled to Fuzhou, China, at 16 to study Chinese martial arts. His extensive training, including the White Crane method, shaped Naha-te. Returning to Okinawa, he taught Naha-te, later known as Chuanfa, developing a teaching method for the mind and body’s improvement.

Kenwa Mabuni (1887 – 1952)

Founder of Shito-Ryu, Kenwa Mabuni began karate training at 13 under Ankoh Itosu and later studied Naha-te under Kanryo Higaonna. Mabuni integrated teachings from various masters, leading to the formation of Shito-Ryu in Japan. His influence spread through notable students, including Kanei Uechi, who continued the legacy.

Ryusho Sakagami (1915 – 1993)

A distinguished martial artist, Ryusho Sakagami, succeeded Kenwa Mabuni as the third generation head of Itosu-Ha Seito. A perfectionist and demanding teacher, Sakagami’s profound knowledge and skill in Budo made him a significant figure in Shito-Ryu. His legacy lives on through students like Shihan Fumio Demura.

Conclusion: The Legacy Lives On

The journey of Shito-Ryu karate unfolds through these grandmasters, each contributing to the evolution and dissemination of this martial art. Their teachings continue to inspire practitioners worldwide, keeping the spirit of Shito-Ryu alive and thriving.