Shito-Ryu Karate was founded
by Kenwa Mabuni. He named
his style after his two teachers, Itosu and Higaonna.
The word "shito" comes from the Japanese characters
used to write his teachers' names, while "ryu"
means style - hence the name Shito-Ryu.
Shito-Ryu develops character
by training the practitioner physically, mentally, and
spiritually. The aim is to develop all aspects in a
harmonious manner. Since Karate is taught in a disciplined
manner, it acts to discourage those of weak character
who might use the art in a dishonourable way. Karate
without character is violence. The five rules of Kohshikai,
recited before every practice, translate into English
as:
Be moderate and courteous
Be righteous and have a strong sense of justice
Be modest in your words and actions
Respect others
Karate-do is a lifetime study
Following Mabuni's death, his student, Sakagami, founded
the Itosukai Association. The main headquarters remain
in Yokohama, Japan to this day. With the passing of
Sakagami, Grand Master Suzuki created the Kohshikai Association.
Tokyo is the now the main base for the Kohshikai Association.
Shito-Ryu is one of the four main styles of Karate,
and has practitioners worldwide. Our style, formally
known as Shito-Ryu Kohshikai, is presently headed by
Grand Master Kohshi Suzuki in Japan. The Pan American
Master, or Shihan, of Shito-Ryu Kohshikai is Akira Sato
of Vancouver. Shihan Sato was a student of Grand Master
Suzuki. As you can see, lineage generally follows through
your instructor.
Shihan Akira Sato was born
in Tokyo, Japan, in 1944. His father was a policeman
and a judo practitioner. When Grand Master Suzuki created
the Kohshikai Association, Sato was promoted to his new
position. Shihan Sato obtained a Bachelor of Sociology
from Hosey University and a Teaching Certificate for
Social Studies before moving to Canada in 1970.
Shito-Ryu Kohshikai hosts
an annual tournament which invites athletes from across
Canada and around the world. Over 500 competitors participate,
vying for the popular Sato CIndia. The association also
performs demonstrations and has an annual summer camp
where the community is invited to watch or participate.
Workshops by internationally renowned Karate practitioners
are often hosted by Shito-Ryu clubs.
The
word karate comes from the two words "kara"
(empty) and "te" (hand). Thus, karate is known
as "empty-hand" and is considered the most efficient
and effective way of unarmed combat. Karate itself teaches
students to move quickly, block effectively, create strong
stances and make powerful strikes using hands and feet.