Japanese Karate School

Origin of Japanese Karate

Karate, meaning "empty hand, Karate originated in Okinawa, Japan, as a combination of indigenous fighting styles and martial arts from other countries:

Okinawan style: A simple but effective fighting style that was used in combat for centuries

Chinese style: An elaborate style that incorporated philosophical teachings

White Crane style: A style from Fujian, China that was especially influential

The Origins of Karate in Japan | KCP Japanese Language School The exact origins of karate are not known, but it's believed to have developed around 500 years ago. The earliest practitioners were members of the royal court who protected the royal family and kept the peace. Karate was introduced to mainland Japan in the 1920s by Okinawan karate master Gichin Funakoshi. Funakoshi taught a synthesis of Okinawan styles called Shotokan. He dedicated his life to promoting the values of karate and introduced it to Japan. In 1949, his followers established the Japan Karate Association (JKA) to promote karate. Karate is known as heiwa no bu, which means "martial art of peace" in Japanese. It's practiced by more than 130 million people around the world.

Key Historical Points

Okinawan Influence

Karate's roots are found in Tode, an Okinawan fighting system influenced by Chinese martial arts.
Introduction to Japan

In 1922, Gichin Funakoshi introduced Karate to mainland Japan, demonstrating its techniques at a Tokyo university.
Development of Styles

Various styles of Karate emerged, including Shotokan, Goju-Ryu, and others, each with its own techniques and philosophies.
Post-War Popularity

After World War II, Karate gained widespread popularity both in Japan and around the world.

Origin of Japanese Karate

Key Historical Points

Karate Evolution Diagram