Gichin Funakoshi
(1868-1957)
Master Funakoshi began his martial arts training under Master Azato. During this time, Master Azato was training directly with Soken Matsumura. Master Funakoshi also studied the Shuri-te system under Master Itosu. He learned the Naha-te system under Master Niigaki. Master Funakoshi was the founder of the Shotokan style of karate. He is probable best know for his introduction of karate to Japan. Master Funakoshi is said to have been the very first Master to demonstrate the Okinawan arts to the Japanese. Not only was this the first demonstration in Japan, but it was the first demonstration outside of Okinawa given to the public. Which lead to the development and the practice of the Okinawan systems outside of Okinawa. Master Funakoshi started life in very poor health. Through hard training in karate Master Funakoshi improved his health and became a world renowned Master. After going to Japan to demonstrate his karate, Master Funakoshi never returned to Okinawa. He traveled across Japan setting up Karate programs at many universities. Final Master Funakoshi settled down in Tokyo and opened up a dojo of his own. Master Funakoshi then changed the characters of karate to mean “empty-hand”, rather then “Chinese Hand”. Many Okinawan Masters resented this, but finally they all accepted it. Master Funakoshi believed in vigorous kata training, makiwara training, and body conditioning. Master Funakoshi didn’t like kumite at all, he even felt that it degraded the art. Master Funakoshi also changed the names of all the kata to a Japanese name (see the Kata page for more). This was not accepted by most Okinawan Masters, and is still in controversy today. Master Funakoshi left behind a huge legacy. Without his help Okinawan Karate may not have been taught outside of Okinawa. In 1955 Master Funakoshi established the Japan Karate Association.
Kata Practiced By Funakoshi: Pinan Shodan, Pinan Nidan, Pinan Sandan, Pinan Yodan, Pinan Godan, Naihanchi Shodan, Naihanchi Nidan, Naihanchi Sandan, Passai Dai, Passai Sho, Wansu, Chinto, Seisan, Jutte, Jion, Kusanku Dai, and Kusanku Sho. (I have presented these with the Okinawan names)
