Shotokan is one of the five traditional karate styles, the others being Gōjū-ryū, Shitō-ryū, Shōrin-ryū and Wadō-ryū. Although it began as a unified karate school that developed into the Japan Karate Association, Shotokan now exists as several independent organizations.
Shoto, meaning "pine waves", was Funakoshi's pen-name, which he used in his poetic and philosophical writings and messages to his students. The Japanese kan means "house" or "hall". In honour of their sensei, Funakoshi's students created a sign reading shōtō-kan which was placed above the entrance of the hall where Funakoshi taught. Gichin Funakoshi never gave his style a name, just calling it "karate".
Shotokan training is usually divided into three parts: kihon (basics), kata (forms or patterns of moves), and kumite (sparring). Techniques in kihon and kata are characterized by deep, long stances that provide stability, enable powerful movements, and strengthen the legs. Shotokan is often regarded as a 'hard' and 'external' martial art because it is taught that way to beginners and coloured belts to develop strong basic techniques and stances. Initially strength and power are demonstrated instead of slower, more flowing motions. Those who progress to brown and black belt level develop a much more fluid style which incorporates grappling and some aikido-like techniques, which can be found in the black belt katas. Kumite techniques mirror these stances and movements at a basic level, but progress to being more flexible with greater experience.
Master Funakoshi
Supreme Master Funakoshi Gichin (1868-1957) is considered the father of modern karate. Born on 10th November 1868 in Okinawa, he was of samurai lineage.
By age 11 he had already made a name for himself in the Ryukyu-style martial arts and also learned karate-jutsu (“Chinese-hand martial art”). Over the years he pursued his training and continuously developed his remarkable skills. Master Funakoshi became chairman of the Okinawa Martial Arts Society, as well as an instructor at the Okinawa Teacher’s School.
In 1922, aged 54, he introduced Okinawan karate-jutsu at the first Japanese Ministry of Education sponsored Physical Education Exhibition. This introduction was the first ever public display of karate-jutsu in Japan. It was a stunning success and the previously unknown martial artist Funakoshi Gichin rose to instant fame throughout the Japanese world of martial arts.
Master Funakoshi subsequently began teaching at Tokyo’s Meiseijuku, a dormitory for Okinawan students. In 1922, he published a book entitled “Ryukyu Kempo Karate.” It was the first formal exposition in Japan on the art of karate.
In 1929, after much thought and reflection, he also changed the name of karate-jutsu (“Chinese-hand martial art”) to karate-do (“the way of karate,” or “the way of the empty hand”). He then defined the twenty precepts of karate, and established a grand karate philosophy.
On April 10, 1957, the Japanese Ministry of Education gave official recognition to the JKA, and it became a legal entity. A mere sixteen days later, at the age of 89, Master Funakoshi passed away. A memorial monument to Master Funakoshi was established at Enkakuji Temple in Kamakura. Members of the JKA pay an honorary visit on April 29th each year, the date of the Shoto Festival.
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