Please note we are currently teaching from our private home dojo (see note below).
Classes are by appointment only.
The Shuri Dojo was established in the UK in 1986. We relocated to the Chicago suburbs in 2016.
Our dojo follows the older Okinawan tradition of training from a small home based dojo. What we lack in size, we make up in the quality and the sincerity of our training.
Our dojo has its foundation in the Shinjin-Ryu Okinawa-Te system of karate founded by Katsumi Tamaki Soke. We integrate our training with theories of combat and practical techniques with no connection to sport. Our mission is to provide authentic, effective practice, grounded in techniques and principles established on Okinawa years ago.
After over 50 years of training, we updated our practice to include our own theories, which we have named Shuhaku-den - not a new style, but a reflection of our philosophy of continually improving ourselves and the dojo.
Through our mentorship with Tamaki Soke, we maintain a strong connection to Okinawa, while engaging with other national and international organisations. Our aim is to help students grow in a positive, safe, and inclusive environment.
Our founder and chief instructor, Adam Carter, began training in 1974. He holds the rank of 8th Dan and the teaching title (shogo) of Hanshi, awarded by Katsumi Tamaki Soke and a panel of senior instructors from the National Martial Arts Association in the United States.
Alongside running the Shuri Dojo, Adam Carter writes extensively in his personal blog, The Openhand Notebook. Together they offer a full picture of his martial and personal journey.
Senior instructor, Noél Carter Shihan, began training in 1999. She holds the rank of 6th Dan. She brings a clear, practical, intuitive approach to teaching, helping students understand how and when to apply what they learn.
We welcome new members and periodically hold a selective student intake. Traditional training is typically limited to small, dedicated groups of students, who are seeking to achieve a high level of disciplined, skills and values. If you are interested in joining us REGISTER with us today.
Chief Instructor
Adam Carter
8th dan (Hachidan)
We do not accept all applications for membership. Our dojo follows the older Okinawan tradition of training from a small home based dojo. We have a selective student intake on a periodic basis. Traditional training is typically limited to small, dedicated groups of students, who are seeking to achieve a high level of disciplined, skills and values. Therefore preserving the culture and foundation of our art.
Note for experienced martial artists: This is a private dojo that is not open to visitors without first gaining permission to train. The dojo exists to take beginners from white belt onwards. It does not cater to experienced martial artists looking for one-off training or transferring from another style.
