History of Shi Do Kan Shorin-Ryu Karate-Do
A Living Tradition Spanning Centuries
📖 Complete Historical Text
Our Lineage Through Time
From ancient Okinawa to present day, trace the unbroken line of masters who preserved and passed down this authentic martial art.
The Seeds of Martial Arts
Tamo (Bohidharma) crossed the Himalayas into Fukien province, teaching 18 body cleansing exercises that would become the foundation of empty hand fighting arts.
Birth of Ch'uan Fa
Chinese scholars Ch'ueh Yuan and Shang-jen revolutionized the original exercises by adding 170 offensive and defensive movements, creating the art of Ch'uan Fa.
The Three Kingdoms Era
Okinawa divided into three rival kingdoms: Hokuzan (north), Chuzan (middle), and Nanzan (south). Chuzan established crucial trade and diplomatic relations with China, beginning an exchange of knowledge that would shape Okinawan martial arts.
Te Develops in Okinawa
The art of Te (hand) emerged independently in three regional styles: Sui-te (Shuri), Nafa-te (Naha), and Tumai-te (Tomare). Thirty-six Chinese families settled in Okinawa, introducing Chinese fighting arts and enriching the local martial tradition.
The Weapon Ban
Okinawa unified under the Sho dynasty. King Sho Shin banned all weapons, forcing the development of sophisticated unarmed combat techniques practiced in utmost secrecy by military functionaries and warriors.
The Satsuma Invasion
The Japanese Satsuma clan invaded Okinawa, strictly enforcing weapon bans and exploiting the people. This oppression led to explosive development in Te, with emphasis on hand and foot conditioning to defeat armored Samurai. Being caught fighting meant instant death.
Peichin Takahara
A widely acclaimed practitioner of Te who taught "Tode" Sakagawa, preserving and advancing the martial tradition through a critical period.
"Tode" Sakagawa
Studied under Takahara and later with Chinese practitioners (possibly Kung Syanag, Kosu Kun, or Ku Shanku). Created or learned the kata Kusanku and Pasai, incorporating Chinese techniques into Okinawan Te.
Sokon "Bushi" Matsumura
Chief martial arts instructor and bodyguard to the Okinawan King. Honored with the title "Bushi" (warrior) in recognition of his exceptional abilities. Made multiple trips to China to study with different masters, then trained the father of modern karate.
Yasutsune "Anko" Itosu
The most influential teacher of Te and father of modern karate. Expanded the art by creating the Pinan kata series and Naihanchi Nidan and Sandan. Split Kusanku and Pasai into sho and dai versions. In 1901, introduced Te to Okinawan public schools, transforming it from a secret art to a public treasure.
Choshin Chibana
Itosu's devoted student who determined to preserve the art unaltered. In 1935, first named the style "Shorin Ryu" to demonstrate its authenticity as the original version of Karate. Founded the Okinawa Shorin-Ryu Karate-do Association in 1958 to prevent deterioration of the art.
1st President - Shorin-Ryu AssociationKatsuya Miyahira
Received the Chibana family seals and became the second President of the Shorin-Ryu Karate-do Association. Named the style "Shi Do Kan" meaning "The place dedicated to building a kind and benevolent character through the practice of Karate." His dedication to authentic Okinawan standards shaped generations of practitioners worldwide.
2nd President - Shorin-Ryu AssociationTakeshi Miyagi
Succeeded Miyahira Sensei as the third President of the World Shorin-Ryu Karate Association, continuing the tradition of authentic Okinawan karate and maintaining the high standards established by his predecessors.
3rd President - Shorin-Ryu AssociationSeikichi Iha (伊波清吉)
10th Dan, Hanshi - Highest ranking Shorin-Ryu master outside of Okinawa. Began studying in 1954 under Choshin Chibana and Katsuya Miyahira. Established the North American Shi Do Kan Association headquarters in Lansing, Michigan. In 2020, designated by the Okinawa Prefecture Government as an Intangible Cultural Asset Holder - a recognition of historical importance held by only 9 masters alive at that time.
Morinobu Maeshiro (真栄城 守信)
10th Dan and current President of the World Shorin-Ryu Karate Association in Okinawa. Lifetime student of Katsuya Miyahira until his passing in 2010. In 2020, designated by the Okinawa Prefecture Government as an Intangible Cultural Asset Holder. Known as one of the most humble and kind people you could ever meet, he continues to uphold the highest standards of authentic Okinawan karate.
Current President - Shorin-Ryu AssociationAllen Mayne Sensei
9th Dan, Hanshi, Grand Instructor - Began training in 1978 under Michael Griffin (student of Iha Sensei). Officially reopened the Grand Rapids Branch dojo in 1984 directly under Iha Sensei. Promoted to 6th Degree in 2002 at age 35 (youngest possible). Promoted to 7th Degree and awarded Grand Instructor title in 2009 by Katsuya Miyahira and Seikichi Iha. Since 2024, now a direct student of Morinobu Maeshiro in Okinawa. Philosophy: Karate is foremost a martial art with two purposes - defending oneself and loved ones from physical harm, and teaching self-improvement through the core values of Duty, Honor, and Loyalty.
Our Current Leadership
Morinobu Maeshiro (真栄城 守信)
Current President in Okinawa and Intangible Cultural Asset Holder. Our direct connection to the authentic traditions of Okinawan karate. His humility and dedication embody the true spirit of martial arts.
Allen Mayne Sensei
Leading Original Okinawan Karate in Grand Rapids since 1978. Direct student of Seikichi Iha Sensei and now Morinobu Maeshiro. Teaching authentic Okinawan karate with emphasis on practical self-defense and character development.
Seikichi Iha Sensei
Forever remembered as the highest ranking Shorin-Ryu master outside Okinawa and Intangible Cultural Asset Holder. His teaching that "Friendship and cooperation are the most important part of karate" continues to guide us.