Ryukyu Karate Jutsu – Shuhaku-den (琉球空手術 首泊伝)
"What style of karate do you practice?" This is one of the most common questions we’re asked by prospective students. Our response is rooted in both tradition and practicality: "We practice Okinawan karate."
More specifically, we practice Ryukyu Karate Jutsu – Shuhaku-den (琉球空手術 首泊伝), a system deeply grounded in the original methods of karate, developed for civilian self-protection rather than for sport or aesthetic purposes.
What is Ryukyu Karate Jutsu – Shuhaku-den? Firstly, it is not a new style in the strictest sense.
Ryukyu (琉球), the name for the islands of Okinawa, the birthplace of karate, before Japanese annexation in 1879, is used to represent that our karate is based upon "old-school" (Koryu - 古流) tradition and practices.
Karate (空手) of course means empty hand, the term Jutsu [術] means method or art, and is usually used when the method of practice is more practical or pragmatic in nature.
The name Shuhaku-den (首泊伝), offered by Tamaki Soke, reflects the unification of three foundational Okinawan traditions: Shuri-te, Naha-te, and Hakutsuru (White Crane).
"Shu (首)" represents the efficient, direct techniques of Shuri-te, which prioritize speed, precision, and simplicity.
"Haku (泊)" embodies the elegance and adaptability drawn from Hakutsuru, a significant influence on both Shuri-te and Naha-te.
"Den (伝)", meaning "transmission," signifies the preservation and sharing of these timeless principles.
Our lineage originates from Shinjin-Ryu Okinawa-Te, a system founded by Katsumi Tamaki Soke 10th dan. Building upon these foundations, our practice has evolved into Ryukyu Karate Jutsu – Shuhaku-den, emphasizing pragmatic, principle-based self-defense for today’s world.
As we move forward with this evolution, we are deeply grateful to Tamaki Soke, who has granted us permission to identify our system as Ryukyu Karate Jutsu – Shuhaku-den. This new identification reflects our commitment to honoring the old traditions while adapting them to reflect our own beliefs and philosophies in training.
We believe that modern karate, in many cases, has strayed from its roots. Much of what is taught today focuses on sports competition or overly stylized forms, often neglecting the original intent: real-world self-protection. Our approach restores the old ways, focusing on effective techniques designed for civilian defense rather than tournament rules.
Ryukyu Karate Jutsu – Shuhaku-den bridges the gap between tradition and practicality. Unlike many modern interpretations of karate that rely solely on punches, kicks, and basic blocks, our training includes:
These techniques, derived from the old fighting arts of Okinawa and China, are seamlessly integrated with the principles of Shuri-te, Naha-te, and Hakutsuru. Every kata, drill, and application is rooted in practicality, designed to prepare students for dealing with Habitual Acts of Physical Violence in real-world situations. (HAPV theory - conceived by Patrick McCarthy-Hanshi)
Ryukyu Karate Jutsu – Shuhaku-den is not a new style of karate, it is an evolution, returning to karate's origins; a method of self-defense and a path of personal development. We aim to provide practitioners with a comprehensive system that not only teaches effective techniques but also improves physical health, builds resilience, and connects them to the rich traditions of Okinawan karate.
Our guiding principle within the phrase: "On Ko Chi Shin" (温故知新) – Study the old, understand the new.
Through Shuhaku-den, we honor the past while ensuring its relevance for the future, offering a system that equips students with the tools they need to defend themselves and grow both mentally and physically.
