THE HISTORY OF ISSHIN-RYU KARATE

By the Twentieth Century, Okinawan Karate consisted of two major styles, Shuri-te and Naha-te. Techniques in both styles primarily evolved from the original Okinawan art of "Te" and from various Chinese martial arts which had been introduced to the Okinawans. Shuri-te emphasizes natural movements utilizing linear steps, speed, and naturally controlled breathing.

Naha-te emphasizes steady, rooted movements utilizing semi-circular steps and rhythmical breathing with respect to body movement (Sanchin). Both styles share the common factor of advocating movement from natural stances.

Tatsuo Shimabuku was the first man to master both Shuri-te and Naha-te. As a result of this unique accomplishment, he created Isshin-ryu which serves as a combination of what he felt were the best aspects of each style.

Tatsuo Shimabuku began studying Shuri-te as a child when he visited one of his relatives who was an instructor of this style. As a young man Shimabuku began to study under the legendary Shuri-te (Shorin-ryu) Master, Chotoku Kyan. Within a short time, Shimabuku became Master Kyan’s best student and, under Kyan’s instruction, learned the kata known as Seisan, Naihanchin, Wansu, Kusanku, and Tokumine no kun no dai (Issinryu’s first Bo kata).

Shimabuku was also fascinated by Naha-te (Gojo-ryu) and began studying under the founder of Goju-ryu, Master Chojun Miyagi. Shimabuku also became Miyagi’s best student, and from him learned Seiunchin and Sanchin katas.

Shimabuku studied both Shuri-te and Naha-te under two of the most respected masters on Okinawa. He later studied under yet another famous Shorin-ryu master, Choki Motubu. Motubu was widely known for his fighting prowess, and his instruction greatly improved Shimabuku’s combative skills.

After his apprenticeship under these three masters, Shimabuku entered a special martial arts festival on Okinawa. His performance of both Shorin-ryu and Goju-ryu katas impressed the spectators, and by 1940 he was recognized of Shorin-ryu and Goju-ryu.

By the 1950's, Shimabuku began to unite the Shorin-ryu and Goju-ryu styles. In 1954, Isshin-ryu was officially created and the Mizu-Gami was chosen to be its symbol. The new style combines the best techniques of both Shorin-ryu and Goju-ryu.

In 1955, the 3rd U.S. Marine Division was stationed on Okinawa and the Marine Corps chose Shimabuku to provide instruction to Marines on the island. As the result of this instruction, Isshin-ryu was to be spread throughout the United States by Marines who returned home. Master Shimabuku’s dream of one style encompassing Shorin-ryu and Goju-ryu has been attained as evidenced by the large number of students now practicing his style.