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Category - Karate History

A Journey through time and culture. Explore the historical tapestry of Karate, delving into its intertwined connections with Okinawa, Japan, and beyond.

Articles

Osu-Understanding the True Meaning and History of  “Osu” (or "Oss") in Karate
Reading Time: 7 minutes This article is part of the Karate Knowledge Vault — a curated collection of standalone educational entries designed to inform, inspire, and deepen your understanding of karate, one insight at a time. If you’ve spent any time in a karate dojo, particularly outside of Okinawa – chances are you’ve heard the […]
Sensei Is Not a Title: Understanding True Karate Ranks and Roles
Reading Time: 7 minutesIn karate, words matter. They carry not just meaning, but respect. And few terms spark more confusion, or quiet assumptions, than Sensei, Shihan, and Kyoshi. Are these titles? Are they ranks? Do they apply automatically once you earn a black belt? Or are they something deeper? As a lifelong student and instructor […]
When I Met Mabuni Kenzo Soke: A Journey to the Source of Shito-Ryu
Reading Time: 7 minutes Historical Lineage Article Mike Williams Kyoshi with Mabuni Kenzo Soke inside the original dojo attached to the home of Shito-Ryu founder Mabuni Kenwa, Osaka, Japan (2003). Historical Record This article documents my visit to Japan in 2003, including training within the organisation preserving the original curriculum of Shito-Ryu Karate-Do and a […]
Mabuni Kenzo Soke – Preserving the Legacy of Shito-Ryu Karate
Reading Time: 7 minutes Historical Lineage Article Karate History · Mabuni Lineage The Passing of Mabuni Kenzo Soke – Legacy, Lineage, and the 2005 Memorial Taikai On 26 June 2005, Mabuni Kenzo Soke, the second Soke of Shito-Ryu and son of founder Mabuni Kenwa, passed away after a lifetime devoted to preserving his father’s karate. […]