About Shito-Ryu
What is Shito-Ryu?
Shitō-ryū (糸東流) is a form of karate that was founded in 1934 by Kenwa Mabuni (摩文仁 賢和). Shitō-ryū is a synthesis of the Okinawan Shuri-te and Naha-te schools of karate and today is considered one of the four main styles of the art.
In March 1939, Kenwa Mabuni officially registered the name of his Karate style, 'Shito-ryu' with the leading martial arts organization, the "Dai Nippon Butoku Kai", that governed all martial arts in Japan at the time. Today, 'Shito-ryu' is popular around the world and is one of the major styles of the World Karate Federation (WKF).
The name "Shito" comes from the first characters of the names of Mabuni's two primary teachers: Itosu and Higaonna.
The Lineage
Kenwa Mabuni
Founder of Shito-Ryu
1889-1952
Kenei Mabuni
2nd Soke
1918-2015
Kenyu Mabuni
3rd Soke
Born 1951
Characteristics of Shito-Ryu
Extensive Kata
Over 50 katas preserved from traditional Okinawan roots
Balanced Training
Equal emphasis on kata (forms) and kumite (sparring)
Competition Ready
Techniques adapted for both traditional and sport karate
Traditional Values
Preserves the spirit and etiquette of classical karate