WHAT IS KARATE?

KARATE is a Japanese word which means "empty hand." In the physical sense karate is a method of unarmed combat which makes use of hands, feet, elbows, knees and other body parts as tools of self-defense. The origins of karate date back several centuries. At one time in Okinawa the common people were the victims of harsh treatment at the hands of the ruling war lords, land owners, and bandits. Their plight was compounded by the fact that they were forbidden to possess weapons. As an answer to their need for self-protection, they began training in secret and developed great skills and power in using their hands and feet as weapons. Throughout the years, many different styles of karate have evolved. Our style of karate, Shotokan, is actually quite modern.

OUR STYLE OF KARATE

Shotokan karate was developed in Okinawa during the early 1900s by Gichin Funakoshi. Master Funakoshi combined the most effective techniques of other karate systems which were practiced at the that time. He built upon this foundation and refined his system of training. In 1917 and again in 1922 he was invited to Japan to demonstrate his karate style. Impressed by his demonstrations, Japanese authorities asked Master Funakoshi to stay and teach karate to the Japanese. He remained in Japan, teaching his art, until his death in 1957.

SHOTOKAN KARATE INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION (SKIF)

SKIF was founded in 1977 by Hirokazu Kanazawa Shihan (Grand Master). With over 1,700,000 active members representing more than 80 countries, SKIF is one of the world's largest and finest karate organizations. SKIF continues to grow world wide, fostering the highest ideals and standards of Shotokan Karate-Do. Our traditional values are passed down from Sensei to Student as we grow into the new millenium.

HIROKAZU KANAZAWA SHIHAN

Kanazawa Shihan is one of the last direct students of Master Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate-Do. Following his graduation from Takushoku University, Tokyo, Kanazawa Shihan achieved the all-Japan Karate Championship for three consecutive years, 1957-1959. His career as a Master Instructor began in 1960. Since that time, Kanazawa Shihan has earned world-wide respect as a highly skilled and popular karate practitioner. He travels world-wide, sharing his knowledge of karate and his values of respect for all persons and oneself. Hirokazu Kanazawa, 10th Dan, has truly earned the title of Shihan.