SHOTOKAN
Shotokan is a form of karate developed in Okinawa more than 100 years ago. It was introduced in mainland Japan during the early 1920’s and then spread to the rest of the world during the 1950’s.
Today, there are thousands of Shotokan schools worldwide; however, only a few recognized organizations teach Shotokan Karate-do in its traditional way. Through its traditional practice, Shotokan helps individuals to develop positive mental and physical skills applicable to everyday life. The key is in the constant search not only for technical perfection, but for human character as well.
Gichin Funakoshi
Born in Okinawa in 1868, Funakoshi Sensei is the creator of Shotokan and responsible for its diffusion all over Japan after the 1920’s. Funakoshi learned Shuri-te and Naha-te (traditional Okinawan martial arts) from Senseis such as Yasutsune Azato and Yasutsune Itosu respectively. The fusion of these two styles would later give birth to Shotokan. Gichin Funakoshi is considered the "Father of Modern Day Karate". He introduced the “Budo” principles into karate and emphasized the philosophical part of this art transforming karate, a fighting style, into the martial art of Karate-do. Funakoshi died in 1957
DOJO KUN
Hitotsu, jinkaku kansei ni tsutomuru koto
seek perfection of character
Hitotsu, makoto no michi wo mamoru koto
be loyal and polite
Hitotsu, doryōku no seishin wo yashinau koto
endeavor and be honest
Hitotsu, reigi wo omonzuru koto
respect others
Hitotsu, kekki no yū wo imashimuru koto
refrain from violent behavior