Shorin-Ryu Karate

Karate originated on Okinawa, which is the largest island of the Ryukyu archipelago. It was a product of the ancient Okinawan culture. Sokon Matsumura, was a disciple of Kanga Sakugawa. Master Matsumura called his style Shuri-Te. Karate-do, as we understand it today, is, for the most part, the product of a synthesis which has taken place over the centuries. The empty hand system of self-defense known today as Shorin Ryu Karate is one of the oldest and most authentic forms of karate being taught throughout the world today. Rich in technique and tradition, it was created out of the need for self-preservation.

The beauty of Shorin Ryu Karate is that the kata bunkai, in addition to punching, blocking and kicking, contain a grappling art known as 'tuite' and vital point striking known as 'kyusho jutsu' ('tuite' consists of grappling, joint locking and throwing techniques and 'kyusho jutsu' is the art of precisely hitting vital areas of the body, otherwise known as pressure points).

Shihan Toshihiro Oshiro as 16 years old start trening Karate under Masao Shima Sensei and laiter on with Shoshin Nagamine Sensei, Seigi Nakamura, Junko Yamaguchi, Jokei Kushi and Chokei Kishaba. He is best known in the West for his mastery of kobudo weapons, particularly the bo of Yamanni Ryu, which has eclipsed to some extent his really splendid karate skills.

Shihan Oshiro is the Chief Instructor for the Ryukyu Bujutsu Kenkyu Doyukai in the United States. Association open to all serious martial artists who are interested in developing and promoting traditional Okinawan budo. He currently teaches karate and weapons at his San Mateo Dojo in California.