kenwa mabuni

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International Ryukyu Karate Research Society 1995-2010History * Culture * Tradition * Heritage * Kata * Pioneers * Biographies * Philosophy * Lineage * User-friendly English Translations

Page 16"Choosing not to follow in the footsteps of the old masters but rather to seek what they sought." - Basho

Mabuni Kenwawas born on No-vember the 14th, 1889 (Meiji22) in Shurion Okinawa. Hisfather, Kenp, worked as a con-fectionery salesman in Shuri1and was the 16thoffspring ofthe Oni gusuku, an Okinawanaristocratic family (Keimochi)2.During the Rykykingdom, hewore the honorary title of,Peichin. Kenpand his wife de-cided to name their second son

Kenwa (the wise and har-monic).

As a child, Mabuniwas quiteweakly and susceptible to ill-ness. At the early age of tenyears, a servant should haveintroduced him into the art ofKaratefor the first time.3Threeyears later, at the age of 13, onthe recommendation of his fa-ther, Mabunistarted his train-ing with the secretary and re-

nowned Karate-master ItosuAnk(1832-1915), the holyfist of Shuri-Te. Mabuniwasvery enthusiastic about Itosustraining and did not miss any

lesson until his twentieth birth-day.4The training with Itosuwas quite intense and over theyears, Mabunilearned all 23Kataof Itosus system.5During

his time at Okinawas Prefec-tual First MiddleSchool (Okinawa Kenritsu Dai-ichi Chgakk), Mabuni trainedalso with Hanashiro Chmo(1869-1945), one of Itosustop-students.6

In 1909 (Meiji42) ItosutoldMabunito expand his knowl-edge with other teachers.7Ma-buniknew Miyagi Chjun

(1888-1953) already fromschool and knew him to be aKarate-student of HigashionnaKanry(1853-1916). Finally,Miyagi made the contact in be-tween the two and Higashionnaaccepted Mabunias a student.From that moment on and forthe following two years, Mabunitrained parallel with ItosuandHigashionna.8 Higashionnataught Mabunithe Naha-Te9

and Mabuni returned the favourwith an outstanding showing ofdedication.10

In 1907 (Meiji40) Mabunibe-gan to work as a substituteteacher at an elementary schoolin Naha. Two years later he wasdrafted into military service inKumamoto. This experienceshould have induced him tostart an apprenticeship at thelocal police academy in 1912(Meiji45/ Taish1).11ThereMabuniwas also taught someKendandJd.12After hepassed, he became a Police in-spector in Naha in 1915 (Taish4). It was the same year, hislong-lived teacher Itosu Ankdied. To pay homage to histeacher, Mabunipracticed Kataat Itosus grave on a daily basisfor an entire year.

During this time Mabunialsostarted his training withAragakiSeishTsuji Peichin(1837 or40-1918 or 20) from Kume.

Aragaki, who was because of

his agility also calledMay (the cat),13taught theSouthern-Chinese style ofMonkfist-Boxing (Chin.: LuohanQuan). He had already taught

Mabunis teacher Higashionna,as well as Miyagi ChjunandFunakoshi Gichin (1868-1957)in the martial arts.14Aragakitaught Mabunihis versions ofUnsu, Schinand NiseishiKata.15Another important influ-ence on Mabuniduring thesedays had the Chinese tea-merchant and Quanfa-expertWu Xiangui(1886-1940, Jap.:Go Kenki).16He introduced Ma-

buni to the style of White CraneBoxing (Chin.: Baihe Quan) andtaught him the three KataNepai, Happorenand Ha-kutsuru.17

In 1918 (Taish7), at just 29years, Mabuniwas already ahighly regarded and respectedmember of the Okinawan mar-tial arts community and aboutto enter one of the most pivotal

years of his life.18On February13thMabunis first son, Kenei,was born and Mabunidecidedto found the Karate Kenky-kai.19This Society for the Re-search on the Chinese Handwas considered something quiteunique in those days and had aconsiderable amount of first-class Karate-masters as mem-bers.20

In 1924 (Taish13) Mabuni ac-cepted several teaching posi-tions and taught Karateinteralia at the Okinawan prefectualTeachers-College (Okinawa-ken Shihan Gakk), the

Fisheries-College (KenritsuSuisan Gakk) & the PoliceAcademy (Kaisatsu Gakk).21Ayear later Mabuniopened hisfirst Djin the backyard of hishouse and founded the ChineseHand Research Club(Karate

KenkyKurabu). Followingthat, he closed the now need-less Karate Kenkykai. We canguess that the members of the

Karate KenkyKurabualso

Mabuni Kenwa

Shito RyuBy Matthias Golinski

Mabuni KenwaPhoto courtesy of Patrick McCarthy


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taught regularly in MabunisDjand thus that they had anagile technical and philosophicalexchange.

Everybody knew that the Ma-buni house was a mecca for Ka-rate-Dmen remembered hisson Kenei.22Really, the elite ofmodern Karate23gatheredthere.

In January 1927 (Shwa2) Dr.KanJigor(1860-1938), thefounder ofJd, and his studentNagaoka Hidekazu(1876-1952)visited the Karate KenkyKu-

rabu. At this opportunity, Ma-buni Kenwaand his friend Mi-yagi Chjun performed variousKataof Karate.24Kanwas quiteimpressed by this performanceand encouraged them to spreadtheir art on the Japanesemainland. KancharacterizedKarateas an universal martialart, suitable for attack and de-fense and had the opinion that

such an ideal Bud [needed]to be spread all over the coun-

try25. Kansaid to Mabuni:According to your ability, youshould be awared fourth Danin

Jdright on the spot. 26

This conversation most likelyacted as the catalyst for Mabunito relocate to Tkyin 1928(Shwa 3).27For the followingten months, Mabuni lived at the

home of Konishi Yasuhiro Ten-shin(1893-1983), a student ofFunakoshi Gichin.28Konishiwasan accounted expert of theJapanese martial arts and atthat time already skilled inKend, Mus-RyJjutsuandTakenouchi-RyJjutsu.He hadalso trained Karatewith Funako-shi Gichinand should later onbecome one of the most impor-tant figures in the development

and spread of Karateon theJapanese mainland.29Mabuniand Konishishared a great pas-sion for the martial arts andmust have liked each other rightfrom the start. MabunitaughtKonishievidently various Kata inthose days.30

Although not proven yet, we canassume that Konishithen intro-duced Mabuni to the basic tech-niques of Mus- or Takenouchi-

Ryin return.Konishialso fre-quently joined Mabunito Karate-demonstrations and even trav-elled with him to Wakayama-Prefecture to train with Uechi

Kanbun(1877-1948), the foun-der of Uechi-Ry. Under the im-pression of this experience, Ma-buniand Konishideveloped theKata Shinpawhich encom-

passed the defensive principleslearned from Uechi. 31

Out of respect for Funakoshi,32Mabunimoved to saka in 1929(Shwa 4) and completely de-voted himself to his wish tospread Karate all over the coun-try. He followed the approach ofhis countrymen FunakoshiGichinand started to teach Ka-rate independently at various

universities (Kansai, Doshisha)and police-academies. The Clubof the Chinese Hand of the Kan-sai-University (Kansai DaigakuKaratebu) was founded in May1930 (Shwa5) and Mabunistarted to teach there.33Lateron he was supported by hiscompanion and teacher Wu

Xiangui(Go Kenki).34Otherteaching places that followed,included, the Higher Pharma-ceutical Technical College

saka (saka KtYakugakuSenmon Gakk) and the HigherMedical Technical Schoolsaka (saka KtIgaku Sen-mon Gakk).35In 1934 (Shwa

Group training at the Karate Kenkyukai in the 1920's. In this photo are Miyagi Chojun, Mabuni Kenwa, HigaSeko and Shinzato Jinan. Hojo undo insert include Miyagi Chojun, Higa Seko, and Shinzato Jinan

Photo courtesy of Patrick McCarthy


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9) Mabuni finally opened his firstown Djin Japan, the Ysh-kan (House of Proper Educa-tion).36His first student in thesedays was Sawayama Masaru(1907-1977), the later founderof Nihon-Kemp.37Uechi Kaneimust have followed shortly af-ter.38

During the mid 1930s Mabunigave greater focus to his owndevelopment and trained almost

daily together with Konishi,tsuka Hironori(1892-1982),the founder of Wad-RyKarateand Ueshiba Morihei(1883-1969), the founder ofAikid. 39

At the time there already werevarious styles of Karateon themainland and the Great-Japanese Society for Martial Vir-tues (Dai Nihon Butokukai)wanted the different schools toseparate from each other. Ma-bunifirst decided to name hiskind of Karateas Hanko-Ry (Half-hard-style).40But outof respect for his two mainteachers, he decided to change

the name to Shit-Ry. Thisterm derives from the Sino-Japanese reading of the firstKanjiof the names Itosuand Hi-gashionna.41In 1939 (Shwa14) the Dai Nihon Butokukai 42registered the name whilst alsoawarding Mabunithe title of aKarate-grandmaster (Karate-

Jutsu Renshi).43

Like the rest of Japan, the Sec-ond-World-War highly afflicted

the still young Shit-Ry

-community. Many of Mabunis

students died or were severelywounded. Mabunisurvived thewar, but lost most of his prop-erty.44His former students gath-ered bit by bit at their old train-ing place and continued theirpractice.

M a b u n i and K o b u d One aspect rather rarely re-ported about Mabuni Kenwaisthe fact that he was also a pro-found expert in the traditionalOkinawan weapon art Kobud.Mabunihad already learnt theuse of the B(6 ft. stick) and

the Sai (iron fork) from histeacherAragaki.45Later on, Ma-buniperfected his abilities withChinen Sanda(1842-1928) andhis especially gifted and mostfamous student Yabiku Moden(1882-1945). Other importantsources of influence wereTawada Shimbuku(1851-1920)and Sueyoshi Jino(1846-1920).46

Mabunialways regarded Karate

and Kobudas a single entityand thus constantly taughtweapon-form during his time inJapan. In doing this, Mabunihasbeen the first to effectively in-troduce Kobudto the Japanesemainland. Mabunis most-famous Kobud-student wasprobably Taira Shinken (1897-1970).47Taira first trained in Ka-ratewith Funakoshiand Kobudwith Yabiku Moden. After Yabiku

awared Tairawith the ShihanMenkyo (Great master-license)in 1933 (Shwa8), he told himto continue his studies under thetutelage of Mabuni.48In the six

Higa Seiko

Mabuni Kenwa Miyagi Chojun

Kyoda Juhatsu

Shinzato JinanTabara Taizo

Madambashi Keiyo

Okinawa c. 1920s:Students and instructors

of the Toudi-jutsuKenkyukai



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years following 1934 (Shwa 9),Mabunitaught Tairaand intro-duced him both to the stickfight-ing-techniques (B-Jutsu) ofSensoko, Sueyoshiand Urazoe,as the Sai-Jutsuof Hantaguwaand Hamahiga.49During the fol-lowing years Taira Shinkenstan-dardized the curriculum andKobuds Kata and even famousstudents of Mabuni, like Saka-

gami Rysh(1915-1993) be-came students of Tairalater on.Today most historians regardTaira Shinkenas the most im-portant Kobud-Master of thepre-war era.

M a b u n i a nd K o r y Jj u t s uFighting styles and especiallytechniques of weaponless closecombat have a long tradition inJapan. According to the Nihon

Shoki, already in 23 BC, Nomino Susuke should have killedhis much stronger opponentKuyehayaof Taima with theuse of vital-point techniques(Atemi-Waza).50When Karatewas publicly demonstrated forthe first time on the Japanesemainland in Kyto on the 5thofMay 1917 (Taish6),51Japan al-ready had a distinctive martialarts scene with a complex sys-tem of classical fighting-styles(Dai-Nihon Bugei or KoryBu-

jutsu). These systems (Ryha)usually hark back to ancient-Japanese noble families and en-compass training in various

weapon and weaponless fightingtechniques. These have beenhanded on within the families forcenturies.52

After Mabunis relocation to themainland, you see the influenceof his training in several classi-cal Japanese weaponless fight-ing systems (Jjutsu, YawaraorTaijutsu). 53We know that Ma-

bunitrained intensively and ex-changed techniques withtsuka, Ueshiba,Konishi andFujita Seiko(1899-1966), the14thgrandmaster of Kga-Ninjutsu.54His son Kenei reportsthat they gave each other

many suggestions concerningthe development of theirstyles.55It is evident that theyintroduced Mabuniat least tosome of the techniques and con-

cepts of their practiced Ryha,like Mus-Ry,Takenouchi-Ry,

ShindYshin-Ry, TenshinShiny-Ry, Shinkage-RyJ-

jutsu, Dait-RyAikijutsu orNanban Satto-Ry.

In 1941 (Shwa16) Mabuniin-troduced his student IwataManzo(1924-1993) to FujitaSeiko,56in order to have himtaught in Fujitas Daien-RyJ-

jutsu.57Mabunihad taught B-jutsuto Iwata, but thought thattheJ(4 ft. stick) would suitehim better.58Although Mabunidoes in this case just follow thetraditional Karate-mindset which

always put the knowledge abovethe teacher or style,59this inci-dent does also indicate Mabunisopen standpoint concerning theJapanese martial arts. It ap-pears like that he had a quitemature attitude about it, seeingthe huge advantages of opendialogue instead of admitting inrivalry or rat-races. Master Ma-buni Kenwamade relations with

all persons and styles, with openmind and positiveness. This ishow Iwata Manzoand Fujitaen-gaged with Master MabuniKenwa. does Iwatas son Genzoremember.60In fact, Iwatadidnot only train Daien-RyJjutsu(up to Menkyo Kaiden-level)61with Fujita. He furthermore be-came his Uchi-Deshi(in-housestudent) and inheritor to NanbanSatto-Ry, Shingetsu-RyShuri-

kenjutsuand Daiten-RyJ-jutsu. 62

Fujitas Nanban Satt-RyKenp(aka Nanban Ippo J-

jutsu) is of special interest inthis case, as this style, similar toKarate, highly relies on strikesand kicks, which it combineswith throws (Nage-Waza) and

joint-manipulation techniques(Kansetsu-Waza). Originallytaught by the Satsuma-clan, itdoes emphasis the use ofAtemi-Waza, but does not contain anysolo-forms (Kata).63

L-R An impressive gathering of Karate authorities: Toyama Kanken, Ohtsuka Hironori, ShimodaTakeshi, Funakoshi Gichin, Motobu Choki, Mabuni Kenwa, Nakasone Genwa and Taira Shinken



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He [Mabuni] studied any mar-tial art that surged at the time,always looking for the positive.

Iwata Genzoremembers.64Aspointed out before, we knowthat not only Mabunis studentIwata, but also Mabunihimselfenjoyed some teaching by Fu-

jita. The influence the renownedFujita had on Mabuni becomesquite clear when you consideranother quote of Iwatas sonGenzo, where he states: BunkaiKumitewas taught by MabuniKenwabut some parts were

changed for Satto-Rystyle.Master Mabunithen, took thisstyle in some parts that fittedwith reason, specially Gyaku-Waza[counter-techniques] andNage-Waza. 65

Especially because of people likeKonishi and Fujita, Mabunialsocame into contact with otherleading exponents of the con-temporary Japanese martial arts

scene, like Ueno TakashiChsui Tenshin(1899-1976).Uenowas an expert of a multi-tude of Japanese Ryha,66andhad reportedly both a strong

ki (inner energy), a hot temperand close connections to theJapanese Mafia (Yakuza).67Both

Konishiand Fujitataught regu-larly at Uenos Renseikan Djin Osaki, Shinakawa, Tky.68Right in this Dj, Ueno alsotaught Mabuni, Fujitaand Saka-gami Ryshin ShindTenshin-RyKenp.69On the other handdid Fujita Seikoteach NanbanSatto-RyKenpto Ueno(in ex-change to be taught ShindTen-shin-RyKenp),70Konishi 71and, as stated before,Mabuni

Kenwa.72

Possibly the most important evi-dence about Mabunis extensivework in classical Japanese mar-tial arts is the Bugei Ryha Dai-

jiten (Great Encyclopaedia ofthe Martial Arts Schools). Thisstandard-work of the JapaneseRyhanames Mabuni Kenwaasthe inheritor of the fighting tra-dition of Shinden Fud-Ry

Kenp.73This school was origi-nally founded as Shinden Jigan-Ryby Yata Onseisai Noriaki(aka Taito) and then later re-named by Yata Noriyuki (aka

Kunino Ichiro) (1822-?).Mabuniwas the 17thgeneration Skeofthe school and passed it on to

his son Kenei, who then taughtUeno Takashi.74But by whomMabuni Kenwaoriginally learnedthis style is unsolved yet. AsYata Noriyukiwas sentenced tolife imprisonment in 1872 (Meiji4),75it is very unlikely that Ma-buni ever received any directteachings from him. All we cansay for certain so far is that Ma-buni studied this style inten-sively and also actively taught it

to his students. 76

In view of Mabunis connectionto the Japanese KoryJjutsu,these remarks could just countas a first step. But based on thisinformation we can already statethat Mabuni, besides his Karateand Kobud, also had consider-able knowledge of KoryJ-

jutsu. With concern to this inter-esting aspect, there is, without

doubt, need for further re-search.

1934 Ikaho, Gunma Prefecture: Mabuni Kenwa [2nd from left] at the dojo of Taira Shinken [3rd from left]Photo courtesy of Patrick McCarthy


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Teachings & ResearchMabunis Shit-RyKaratespread fast in saka, Kbe andKyto and is today among Gj-Ry, Wad-Ryand Shtkan,one of the four major JapaneseKarate-styles.

Mabuniwrote down his beliefsand philosophies about Karateinfour significant books: Karate-

jutsu (The techniques of theEmpty Hand, ca. 1933), Kob

Jizai Goshinjutsu KarateKenp (The Free Fist method ofthe Empty Hand as an Art ofSelf-defense, 1934), Spai noKenky(Research on Spai,1934) and together with Naka-sone Genwa(1895-1978) Karate-DNymon (Introduction to theWay of the Empty Hand, 1sted.1935, 2nded. 1938).

Mabunialso wrote for NakasoneGenwas Karate Ken-ky (Research on the EmptyHand, 1934) the two chaptersKata wa Tadashiku RenshSeyo (Practice Katacorrectly)and Kumite no Ken-ky (Research on Kumite),77aswell as for Nakasones mam-moth-work Karate-DTai-kan (Overview on the Way ofthe Empty Hand, 1938) a chap-

ter about the Aragaki Schin-form,78and various newspaperarticles. Mabunialso planned abook about the SchinandKururunfa-forms (Goj-Ry

Karate-DKenp, Schin andKururunfa). To MabunitheseKatahave been of higher inter-est, as they contain specialgrappling-techniques, uncom-mon throws and reverse head-butts to the solar plexus.79Al-though the book was advertisedin other publications, it wasnever written.

None the less, Mabuni is also, inview of his publications bothqualitative and quantitative, oneof his eras leaders. All the pic-tures in his publications demon-strate his thereby outstandingtechnical level. His techniquesappear quite mature and acutelyprecise in their execution.

Mabunimust have been almostobsessed by the Art of theEmpty Hand and must have had

absorbed all available informa-tion like a sponge. The onlything he was edacious for wasBud reports his son Kenei.80He knew both elements ofShuri- and Naha-Te like noother, and combined them in hisunique synthesis, Shit-Ry.The influence of theAragaki-school and Go Kenkis BaiheQuancan also still be found inthe style today. Mabunis versa-

tility is clearly evident by his useof an impressive 53 Kata.81Inhis time, this high amount ofstyle-specific Katawas almostunparalleled. It is most likely

that Mabuni knew exactly aboutthe uniqueness of his knowledgeand that he made his selectionespecially to preserve a widespectrum of Katafor the upcom-

ing generations. Maybe Mabunialso wanted to show the com-plexity and diversity of Rykyscultural heritage, and preventfurther stereotyping of afarmers fighting style.82

In view of Shit-Rys amount ofKata, one has to keep in mindthat Mabuni himself never re-garded a deep understanding ofall these Kataas really impor-

tant for the mastery of hisstyle.83Like Funakoshi Gichin,Mabuniwas also an advocate ofthe Hito Kata sannen-maxim.Three years constant practise ofone Katawas during those daysthe amount many masters re-garded as minimum, until theytaught the next one to their pu-pils.84Mabuni too had this opin-ion and always recommendedquality above quantity. In hisbook KbJizai Goshinjutsu Ka-

rate Kenphe wrote: In thepast, there were few Karate-

Jutsuexperts who knew manyKata. If you specialize and studyonly a few Kata, then you will bea serious Karate-Jutsustu-dent.85 Elsewhere, in NakasoneGenwas Karate Kenky, Ma-buniwrote: If practiced cor-rectly, two or three Kataaresufficient as your Kata. All theothers should just be studied as

a source of additional knowl-edge. Breadth, no matter howgreat, means little withoutdepth.86 For Mabuni, the studyof Katacontained not only tech-niques alone, but also theiranalysis (Bunkai) and applica-tion with a partner (y). In hisKata-article in Karate Kenkyhe wrote: [] Katamust bepracticed properly, with a goodunderstanding of their Bunkai

meaning.87Similar to that, hewrote in Seipai no Kenky un-mistakably: Katamovement ismeant to be used in a real en-counter [...].88Most likely also

Mabuni Kenwa in Osaka with Go Kenki [right] at Kansai University Kenpo club



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Photos courtesy of Patrick McCarthy

Suparinpei


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in view of the various possibili-ties of Kata-Bunkai, he advisesthe reader in Karate-DNy-mon: The technique is infinite,arrogance is undesirable.89

This unity of form and applica-tion becomes apparent in nearlyevery of Mabunis publications.In his works on Seipai, Sei-unchinorAragaki Schinhedoes not only present explana-tions on the particular move-ments, but always also elabo-rate and fully illustrated infor-mation on their application.90Inaddition to that, the four pic-

tures of his article Kumite Ken-ky can be easily traced toShit-Rys Kata.91

Mabunis statements concerningthe application of techniques areas always, especially in compari-son to other contemporary pub-lications, very detailed and offerboth a remarkable breadth andan astonishing depth. For exam-ple in Seipai no Kenky, he notonly demonstrates striking

(Tsuki-), receiving (Uke-) andkicking techniques (Keri-Waza),but also throwing- (Nage-),

joint-manipulation- (Kansetsu-)and counter-techniques (Gyaku-Waza) against locks and grips.92Also worthy of mention is Ma-bunis counter against a rearshoulder lock (Ushiro-Kata-Gatame) on the basis of thePinan Sandan-form, which he

presents in Karate-DNy-mon.93Additionally he wrote inthe same work: The KataofGoj-Rycontain many interest-ing throws and joint-lockingtechniques, which havent beentaught in Tky[so far]. Thepractitioners of this systemshould never neglect their studyof these throws.94

Mabuni shifted his focus early onin the teaching and research ofKarate. Already the foundationof the Karate Kenkykaiin1918 (Taish7) [Karate KenkyKurabufrom 1925 (Taish14)on] was a novelty and lead to aremarkable association, whichincorporated various styles andaccomplished a quality of itsmembers, which is still un-

equalled.

Beneath his enthusiasm in Kata,Mabuni also had a lot of interestin Karates ability to be an in-

strument of physical education.One of the major targets of hiswork was also to promote thespread of Karateunder the as-pect of health promotion, in or-der to improve the well-being ofthe general population.95Mabuniviewed Karateas an excellentpractice of physical educationand constantly highlighted this

very important aspect. In hiswork Karate-DNymon, hewrites in great depth about thepositive influences of Karate-training on body and mind. Inco-operation with a medical uni-versity he was able to evenprove these effects partly byblood- and urine-tests. 96

Another important cornerstoneof his research is the first edition

of the Bubishi in 1934 (Shwa9). This legendary Chinese texthas been transmitted over gen-erations among Okinawas Ka-rate-masters and has had sig-

Funakoshi Gichin [far left] Mabuni Kenwa [seated] Konishi Ya-

suhiro [2nd from right] & Mabuni Kenei [far right]Photo courtesy of Patrick McCarthy

Konishi Yasuhiro & Mabuni Kenwa


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nificant influence on the re-search and understanding ofpeople like Higashionna Kanry,Funakoshi Gichin, Itosu Ank,Shimabukuro Tatsuo(1908-1975) and many others. To Ya-maguchi Ggen(1909-1989) the

Bubishi was the most treas-ured text and Miyagi Chjuneven called it the bible of Ka-rate.97

Mabuniwas without any doubtalso one of Karates greatest vi-sionaries. During a time whenwomen were the excluded abso-lutely in a Karate-Dj, Mabunideveloped special concept ofself-defense for them. On re-quest of the Japanese govern-ment, Mabuni, together withKonishi Yasuhiroand under theassistance of Ueshiba Morihei,devised the KataGreen Wil-

low (Aoyagior Seiry). Thesespecial techniques of MabunisShit-Ryand KonishisJjutsuencompasses and takes intoconsideration the anatomy ofthe fair sex.98Mabunis KataMiyojo(Venus) is another prod-uct of his research in this field,which he even wanted to dedi-cate a special book (Mabuni-RyKarate-DKenpJoshi Go-shin-jutsu) to.99Unfortunately

this project remained unfin-ished.

In view of all these accomplish-ments it is not surprising that

Mabuniwas held in such highesteem among both Japaneseand Okinawan Karate masters.In the field of weaponless fight-ing, he was commonly consid-ered as an outspoken expert,as his son Kenei reportedlater.100His Kata-ability was es-pecially well respected. Accord-ing to his son Kenzo(1927-2005), Mabuniknew altogethermore than 90 different Kata.101His other son Keneiindicates aneven higher amount, when hesays that 70 percent of theKata his father had studied arelost in Okinawa today.102

Considering this, FunakoshiGichin once said: If you want toknow about Kata, ask MabuniKenwa and called him an out-standing Budteacher and therichest source of Karate-Jutsu

technique and information inthis era.103Motobu Chki(1870-1944), one of RykysKumite-experts said: For tech-nique, there is none better thanMabuni Kenwa.104In public hewas just known as Mabuni thetechnician.105Mabunis out-standing dedication attractedboth respect and a grudging re-spect. Because of his pleasantnature and his remarkable dedi-

cation to the art of Karate, itwas difficult for others to reallyhate or discredit him. Mabunicould have easily been a richman several times over had he

ever wanted to cash in on hispopularity. He was liked by eve-ryone, perhaps envied by some,but hated by no one, saidtsuka Hironorionce about this.106

It is hard to form an opinion ofMabunis fighting ability. In con-trast to other Okinawan Karate-masters, there are not many re-ports about altercations in Ma-bunis life. According to Saka-gami Ryshand Mabunis sonKenei, he should have had touse his skillsquite frequentlyduring his time as a police-man.107Keneialso states that

his father sometimes worked asa referee at Kake dameshi,

challenge fights or exchange oftechniques 108These fights usu-ally took place on street corners,in backyards and other publicplaces in the evenings or atnight. There were usually wit-nesses and every technique waspermitted.109It should bepointed out that these eventswere primarily power struggles

for the sake of the learning, sothat the opponent wasntbeaten-up mercilessly.110Themain idea was to detectstrengths and balance weak-nesses.111According to anotherstatement of Kenei, Mabunihim-self would have been challengedfrequently to such fights andusually accepted them.112

Similar to Funakoshi Gichin,Ma-

buniwas also a strict opponentof free sparring (Randori) in histraining.113None the less, heevidently experimented quitefrequently with different kinds ofprotective gear (Bgu). Mabunialso put a lot of emphasis on thepractice of prearranged spar-ring. Although his main focus layon the practice and analysis ofKata, Mabuniunderstood themany shortcomings of trainingexclusively in Katafor the mas-tery of Karate. He wrote in hisarticle Kata wa Tadashiku Ren-shSeyo:The correct practiceof Kata[] is the most impor-tant thing for a Karatestudent.

Mabuni Kenwa, Miyagi Chojun & Sawayama Masaru



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However, the Karateka mustnever neglect Kumite- andMakiwara-practice.114If theKaratekahowever disregardsKatatraining and concen-trates completely on Kumiteand Makiwarathen this, ac-cording to Mabuni,will leadto unexpected failure whenthe time comes to utilize yourskills.115In order to get sat-isfactory results, Mabuniad-vises to train seriously andspend fifty percent of thetraining time on Kataandfifty percent on additionalpractice.116

Influence on JKAK a r a t eAnother quite important as-pect, often overlookedis Ma-buni's strong influence on Fu-nakoshi Gichinand the devel-opment of the Shtkan-style. 117

Funakoshiand Mabunial-ready knew each other fromtheir time in the Karate Ken-kykai on Okinawa and al-

ways kept in close contact.Back on Okinawa Funakoshihadtwo main teachers: The ministerof stateAsato AnkTnchi(1827-1906) and Mabunis laterteacher Itosu Ank.118AlthoughFunakoshi consideredAsatoashis most important teacher,Itosutaught him, by his own ac-count, the Heian, Tekkiandother Kata. 119

But especially in view of the fivePinan- (Heian-)Kata,this directline of transformation in be-tween Itosuand Funakoshiisnot as definite as it might ap-pear on the first view. There aresome hints indicating that Funa-koshidid not learn the Pinandi-rectly from Itosu,but ratherfrom his student Mabuni. Weknow that Funakoshistarted hisKarate-training during primaryschool 120 (in between 8 and 10years of age) and that he stud-ied for the next ten years (so upto 1888, Meiji 21) withAsatoand Itosu.121

Most likely Itosuhad developedthe Pinan-forms by himself, onbasis of Passai, Kshkun, Usei-shi, Chintand Chintei,122andpublished them for the first timein spring of 1904 (Meiji37),123quite some time after Funakoshihad trained with him. Gima Ma-koto (Shinkin)(1896-1989), astudent of Itosu,Yabu Kents(1866-1937) and Funakoshiand

one of his first black belts124states, that Funakoshijustlearned the Pinanright beforehis departure to Tky(1922,Taish11).125Opposing this is astatement by Nagamine Shshin(1907-1997), the founder of Ma-tsubayashi-Ry, that Funakoshihad already taught them to Oki-nawan school children in 1916(Taish5).126The renownedJapanese Karate-historian Dr.Fujiwara Ryzhowever saysexplicitly that Funakoshilearnedthe Pinanfrom Mabuni Kenwain1919 (Taish8).127

On basis of the availablefacts, the transfer of the Pi-nan-forms cant be clearlytraced back to one of thosetwo lines of transmission(directly vs. indirectly via Ma-

buni). Against a direct trans-mission speaks the fact that

just Funakoshis own state-ment dates a performance ofthe Pinanby Funakoshibe-fore Itosus death (1915, Tai-sh4). For a direct transmis-sion on the other hand,speaks the huge period oftime of over one decade(1904-1915) in betweenItosus first publication of the

Pinanand his passing. Inview of that you also have toconsider that Okinawas Ka-rate-scene was rather clearand manageable in thosedays. In the humble opinionof the author, a hybrid ofthose theories, like a vagueinstruction by Itosuand alater adjustment and deepen-ing by Mabuni, appears mostlikely. A similar conclusion

can be drawn from the state-ment that in 1928 (Shwa3)Mabunicorrected the Pinan-forms tsukahad been taughtby Funakoshi. 128

After his relocation to the Japa-nese mainland, Funakoshi Gichinhimself considered 15 traditionalKatato be enough for thepropagation of his idea of Ka-rate.129He explains those big

15 both in his first publicationsRykyKenpKarate(1922,Taish11) and Rentan GoshinKaratejutsu (1925, Taish14),as well as in the two editions ofhis Mastertext (Karate-DKy-han) from 1935 (Shwa10) and1958 (Shwa33).130

In his work Karate-Do Ny-mon (Introduction to the EmptyHand) from 1943 (Shwa 18)Funakoshihowever writes thatfurthermore also the formsTenno Kata, Chi no Kata, Hito noKata, Rhai (Meiky), Schin(Hakk), Unsu (Hatsuun / Kiun),Sht, Chintei (Chinte / Shin),

Mabuni Kenwa and Funakoshi Gichinwith Sakagami Ryusho and Nakayama

Masatoshi in the background


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Gojshiho / Useishi (Htaku)

and Jiin (Shky),have beenstudied and investigated in hisDj(Shtkan).131While Sht,Ten, Chiand Hito no KataareFunakoshis self-creations, wedo not exactly know via whatline of transmission the Kata R-hai, Unsu, Chintei, GojshihoandJiincome from.

Funakoshis students NakayamaMasatoshi(1913-1987), Nishi-

yama Hidetaka(*1928) andObata Isao(1904-1976)founded the Nihon Karate Ky-kai(JKA,JapanKarateAssocia-tion) in May 1949 (Shwa24)

and with that, no doubt, laid the

headstone of the worldwidespread of both their Shtkan-concept and ofKarate in gen-eral.132Shortly after the founda-tion, they added next to theafore mentioned Kata, the formsPassai (Bassai) Sh, Kshkun(Kank) Sh, Gojshiho Sh, Ni-seishi (Nijshiho)and Wankan(Hit)to their curriculum.133Similar to Rhai,Unsu, Chintei,Gojshiho andJiin, we do not

exactly know from whichteacher(s) they derived.

No official publication of the Nihon Karate Kenkyukai (Japan

KarateAssociation) or their de-rivatives makes any precisestatements about how these ad-ditional ten Katagot into thestyle.134It is quite apparent,

that (at least by the name) theyare all Katathat Mabuniwasalso teaching in his Shit-Ry.

In view of Mabunis immensereputation, it is also no surpriseto see that there was a lot of ex-change between Mabuniand Fu-nakoshis school. Mabunis sonKeneie.g. reports that Funako-shihimself should have send histhird son Gig(1906-1945) back

from Japan to Okinawa in orderto learn Kata from Mabuni.135Right after Mabunisarrival inTkyin 1928 (Shwa3), heevidently taught several of Fu-nakoshis top-students, likeObata Isaoor Konishi Yasu-hiro.136Even Funakoshihimselfshould have joined his studentsin training-sessions with Mabuni,especially as he advised them tostudy new Kata.137Mabunis sonKenzoremembers that in 1945(Shwa20), Funakoshi Gichinsent his students Nakayama Ma-satoshiand Obata Isaoto sakain order to train with Mabuni.138Short time after that, Funakoshishould have introduced Sht-kan-versions of theUnsu-(Hatsuun/Kiun), Niseishi-(Nijshiho)and Gojshiho-Kata.139This is probably thesame visit Nakayama Masatoshitalk about, when he says:

Master Funakoshi never stoppedto study other forms of Karate.When we visited master Mabuni,he told me to learn the Goj-shiho-and Nijshiho-Kata, sothat we could address themmore intensively later one. Rightafter that, Mabuni Kenwataughtme these Kata.140Another sen-ior student of Funakoshi andfounder of Wad-Ry, tsukaremembers that many of Funa-

koshis Katacame directly fromMabunior were at least cor-rected by him.141

Mabuni Kenwa


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When you compare the Sht-kan- and the Shit-versions ofthe KataUnsu, Gojshiho Dai/Sh, Jiin, Kshkun Sh, PassaiSh, and Niseishi it is quitestriking that they basically justvary in view of some Shtkan-specific adjustments.142A closerelationship is thus quite evi-dent, which suggests a stronginfluence by Mabuni. Such aconnection can not be easily

made when it comes to the KataRhai, Chintei, SchinandWankan. These Katadiffer toomuch in the choice of techniqueand bottom-line (Enbusen).Concerning the transmission ofthose Katainto Shtkan,thereremains need for further re-search.

In consideration of these facts,we can say without doubt that

the JKA-Shtkanhas beenheavily influenced by the foun-der of Shit-Ry, Mabuni.Alto-gether 12 out of the 26 Katacame directly from Mabunior

have been corrected by him.MabuniKenwawas thus muchmore important for the develop-ment and shape of the style,than it is today usually assumedor acknowledged by their repre-sentatives.

Mabuni Kenwa was withoutdoubt an outstanding Karateka.His research and work stillhighly affects the worlds Ka-

rate-scene. Next to his two sonsand successors Kenei andKenzo,Mabuni Kenwahad ahuge amount of important stu-dents. Over the years, most ofthem founded their own stylesand organisations. MabunisShit-Ryis today one of thebiggest Karate-styles, with Djand branches all over theworld.143

Mabuni Kenwa died at the 23rd

of May 1952 (Shwa27) at theage of 62 years.

Those people who are trulythinking of the future of Karateshould not keep a closed mind

and limit themselvesto learning only an empty shell,but should strive to study thecomplete art. 144Mabuni Kenwa

A collection of Mabuni Kenwas manybooks, including his hand-written copy of

Itosu Ankohs Bubishi


Uke-teUchi-te

[Receiving hand attacking hand]Calligraphy by Mabuni Kenwa


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Acknowledgements:The author would like to thanksMr. George Kohler (Melissa,Texas) and especially Mr. MarkTankosich, MA (Hiroshima Uni-versity of Economics) for theirkind and patient help in the allo-cation and interpretation ofsome of the Japanese sources.Furthermore the author would

like to thank Mr. Craig Roberts,BC (Sydney, Australia) for hishelp with proofreading andcopy-editing.End notes:1 Bittmann (2000), p. 111.

2 e.g. McCarthy (1999), p. 3.

3 Noble/McLaren/Karasawa (1988) cite

Mabunias following: One of my ser-vants Morihiro Matayoshionce taughtme kiba-dachi-no kata. [Naihanchi][...]According to McCarthy (1999, p. 11)

Matayoshihas been a student of Matsu-mura Skon(1809-1901). also Bitt-mann (2000), p. 111.

4 Moledzki (b).

5 Sells. These Katawere: Pinan Shdan-Godan, Naihanchi Shdan-Sandan,Passai (Dai & Sh), Kshkun (Dai, Sh& Shih), Useishi, Chint, Wanshu,Chintei, Rhai Shdan-Sandan, Jitte,

Jion, Jiin. also McCarthy (1999), p. 36with Kuniyoshi Kshkun instead ofWanshu.6 McCarthy (1999), p. 4.

7 Moledzki (b). McCarthy (1999, p. 4)

writes about 1910 (Meiji 43). based onthe other information he gives (When

Mabuni was twenty years of age; sameyear that Mayagi Chjunwas sent to Mi-yazaki Prefecture), we can guess that

he actually also means 1909 (Meiji42).Bittmann (2000, p. 111) says that Ma-bunialready started to train with Hi-

gashionnain 1907.8 Bittmann (2000), p. 111.

9 The style Higashionnahad learned inChina and which later became, next to

Shuri-Te, the second main stream ofOkinawan Karate.10 Another student ofHigashionna, Kyda Juhatsu(1887-1968), reported that Mabunihad trainedwith him to a previously unknown inten-

sity. McCarthy (1999), p. 4.

11 e.g. Bittmann (2000), p. 111.

12 Bittmann (2000), p. 111.

13 Mabuni (2007), p. 46 and Wittwer(2007), p. 146.

14 Mabuni (2007), p. 46.

15 According to McCarthy (1999, p. 6),

Aragakishould have corrected the S-chin-Version Mabunihad originallylearned from Itosu. That appears a bitstrange, as Schin is usually not men-tioned as a Kataof Itosus curriculum.

16 McCarthy (1997), p. 40 et seqq.

17 These were later modified by Mabuniand taken into his style Shit-Ryunderthe names of Nipaipo, Paipurenand Ha-kucho.

18 e.g. Moledzki (b).19 Bittmann (2000), p. 111.

20 Who exactly has been a member of

the society is not clearly know yet. But

we know that with Motobu Chy(1857-1927), Yabu Kents(1863-1937), Funa-koshi Gichin,Hanashiro Chmo(1869-1945), Kyan Chtoku(1870-1945),Yabiku Moden(1882-1945), ChibanaChshin(1885-1969), Tokuda Anbun(1886-1945), Wu Xiangui,Kyda Ju-hatsu, Tang Daiji(1887-1937), MiyagiChjun, Sokon Hhan(1889-1982), andGusukuma Shinpan(Shiroma Shinpan,1890-1954) both masters of Shuri-Te,

Naha-Teand Chinese Quanfataughtthere. Bittmann (2000), p. 111, Sells,and McCarthy (1999), p. 8.

21 Bittmann (2000), p. 111 and Mabuni

(2007), p. 54. The Police-Academy is

just mentioned by Mabuni.

22 Mabuni Kenei in McCarthy (1999), p.

8.

23 Mabuni (2007), p. 54.

24 It is said that Kanprimarily visitedOkinawa to attain the opening ceremony

of the OkinawanJd-Blackbelts-Club.Mabuni (2007), p. 54. also Noble

(2006b). Bittmann (2000, p. 106 et

seq.) presents 1926 and 1927 as possi-

ble years of that event.

25 Kanin Mabuni (2007), p. 54.

26 Kanin Mabuni (2007), p. 85.

27 Mabuni/McKenna (2002), p. 8 and p.20. also Mabuni (2007), p. 56.

28 High (2006).

29 About Konishi Yasuhiro elaboratelyGolinski (2004).

30 High (2006).

31 McCarthy (1999), p. 19, Sells and

Mabuni (2007), p. 50. Mabuni does not

mention Konishiand states to have com-pleted the Kataafter his fathers death.32 Mabuni (2007), p. 56.

33 Miyagi, p. 160 and Bittmann (2000),p. 113. Bittmann writes that Mabunistarted to teach there at the beginning

of the nineteen-thirties. According to

the opinion of the author, it could also

be that Mabuni already supervised or

even initiated the foundation of the club.

34 Mabuni (2007), p. 107.

35 Miyagi, p. 160.

36 Chambers, p. 2. According to Saka-gami Ryshthat was the name of theschool Mabunihad attained as a child.McCarthy (1999), p. 20.

37 Mabuni (2007), p. 58.

38 not to confuse with the son of the

Uechi-Ry-founder with the same name.Uechistarted his training in 1926, re-ceived his Nidanfrom Mabuni in 1935(Shwa 10) and his Yondanin 1942(Shwa17). In 1948 (Shwa23) Uechiwent back to Okinawa and founded the

Shit-RyKempKarate-DKai.39 High (2006).

40 Moledzki (b). Bittmann (2000, p.

113) considers that Mabuni simply called

his style Mabuni-Ry(style/school ofMabuni). McCarthy (1999, p. 19) writesthat Mabunis teachers were known inKansai-region as Hanko-Ry and inKanto-region as Mabuni-Ry.

41 Ito = shi; Higa = t; School/style of Itosuand Higashionna.

42 It is unknown when exactly the

change of the name took place. Accord-

ing to McCarthy (1989), it was in 1934

(Shwa9), Bishop (1999, p. 106) dates1937 (Shwa12) and Bittmann (2000,p. 113) says 1938 (Shwa13). There isno question that it was registered as

Shit-Ry at the Butokukaiin 1939(Shwa14). e.g. McCarthy (1999), p.19 or Mabuni (2007), p. 59.

43 Mabuni (2007), p. 59. McCarthy

(1989), states 1938 (Shwa13).

44 Moledzki (b).45 According to Sells,Aragaki shouldhave taught the KataAragaki-Band

Aragaki-Saito Mabuni. also Moledzki(b).

46 A precise presentation at McCarthy

(1999), p. 21.

The final journey of Mabuni Kenwa



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47 About Taira Shinken elaborately Go-linski (2007).

48 McCarthy (1999), p. 22.

49 McCarthy (1999), p. 22.

50 Aston (1998), p. 175 et seqq. and

additionally also Mol (2001), p. 6. The

Nihon Shoki(also Nihongi) is the sec-

ond-oldest book about Japanese historyand one of the most-important docu-

ments of the Japanese culture. It was

completed in May 720 AD and consists

of altogether 30 parts.

51 e.g. McCarthy (1989).

52 The oldest traditionalJjutsu Ryhalike Kukishin-, Nen-,Tenshin ShdenKatori Shint-, or Kage-Rylead evi-dently back to the early and medium

Muromachi-period (1333-1575). SomeNinjutsu-schools like Shinden Fud- orTogakure-Ryclaim to be even older.53 Among experts there is the ongoing

discussion, if and in how far the various

fighting-traditions of the Ninja-warriors(Ninjutsu) could be apportioned to theclassical-Japanese fighting arts of the

nobility (Nihon KoryBujutsu). Concern-ing the topic of this article, a differentia-

tion doesnt lead to any further insights.

Relating to the weaponless aspects of

those systems, the term KoryJjutsuisin the following thus simply used for all

styles which were developed on the

Japanese mainland before 1876 (Meiji9).

54 High (2006) and Mabuni (2007), p.

59. High names tsuka, Konishiand Ue-shiba, whereas Mabuni names Fujitain-

stead of Ueshiba.55 Mabuni (2007), p. 59.56 Hevener (2008), p. 55.

57 Hevener (2008), p. 44.

58 Moledzki (a) and Hevener (2008), p.

55.

59 In those days it was common practise

for a teacher to recommend his students

to other teachers, in order to enhance

their knowledge. e.g. Funakoshi

(1975/1993, p. 37) reporting about his

teachers ItosuandAzato.Most of thegreat Karate-masters of those days hadat least two major teachers, with some

other influences. As already stated,

Yabiku Mden

e.g., recommended his

famous student Taira Shinkento MabuniKenwa. Above that, lots of Karate-masters even told their students to train

other arts in order to improve their Ka-rate.AzatoAnko (1828-1906 or 1829-1909) e.g. told his students to also train

grappling, swordsmanship, horseman-

ship, archery and military strategy in

order to truly understand Karate. Ho-kama (2005), p. 15. AndAragaki Ankichi(1899-1929) said: Of course you should

concentrate primarily on your Karate,but do not overlook the value of learning

as much as you can about other kinds of

martial arts and sports, too. In that way

you will improve your fitness level, ex-

pand your range of knowledge in gen-

eral, and also improve your ability to

respond more effectively in self-

defense. Aragaki in Nagamine/McCarthy

(2000), p. 136 et seq.

60 Iwata Genzo in Hevener (2008), p.

73. The writing of the names was

changed by the author, in order to fit the

Japanese-style (last-name first)-format

of this article.

61 Hevener (2008), p. 44. Iwatagot hisMenkyo Kaiden(and maybe even thetitle of Ske) already in 1943. Ettig

(2004), p. 198.62Watatani/Yamada (1978), p. 662, 509

and Hevener (2008), p. 56.

63 Ettig (2004), p. 176. The BugeiRyha Daijiten names Hashimoto Ip-

posai(?-1919) as founder, teaching Mi-ura Ichiro, who taught both Fujita andUchida ShichirHyei Takayasu. Iwataisnamed as a student of Fujitaand the 4thSkeof the style. Watatani/Yamada(1978), p. 662. Fujitahimself thereforestates that the started his training in

1914 (Taish3), at the age of fifteen,directly under Hashimoto and receivedMenkyo Kaidenin 1919 (Taish8). Ettig

(2004), p. 176 et seq.64 Iwata Genzo in Hevener (2008), p.

73.

65 Iwata Genzo in Hevener (2008), p.

73. The writing of the Japanese names

and styles/techniques was changed by

the author, in order to fit the format of

this article. also Moledzki (a).

66 Uenohad Menkyo Kaidene.g. inAsayama Ichiden-RyTaijutsu (aka Ichi-den-RyTorite Jjutsu), ShintTenshin-RyKenp, Gyoko-RyKosshi-Jutsu,Kukishin-Ry, Bokuden-Ry, Minuta-denand became Ske of Hontai Takagi Yo-shin-RyJjutsu,Amatsu Tatara Kuki-

shin-RyBjutsu,Hontai Kishin Chosui-RyKukishinden Dakentaijutsu, ShindenFud-RyTaijutsu (all in 1954, Shwa29), Kot-RyKopp-Jutsu (in 1959,Shwa 34) and Shinden Fud-RyKenp. Apart of that, he did a study-travel to the Ryky-Islands, Taiwanand China in 1926 (Taish15/ Shwa1), where he also got some experience

in the Okinawanfighting arts. e.g. Ettig(2004), p. 118, 129, 160 et seq. and

214 et seq.

67 Ettig (2004), p. 118 et seqq. and 214

et seq. Uenos most prominent studentis without doubt Dr. Hatsumi Masaaki

(Yoshiaki) Ske (*1931), the founderand international director of the Bu-

jinkan Dj.68 Right after the war, Konishitaught onTuesdays and Fridays, whereas Fujitataught on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Anegawa Katsuyoshi in Kaminaga

(1996), p. 8.

69 Kaminaga (1996), p. 14. UenotaughtSakagami also in Shinden Fud-RyTai-

jutsuandAsayama Ichiden-RyTai-jutsu. Kaminaga (1996), p. 17 et seq.70 Hevener (2008), p. 36.

71 Ettig (2004), p. 178.

72 To understand all this cross-trainingand the openness to share ideas and

concepts in this era (1930-1950), one

has to keep different factors in mind.

Most of the participants were in their

technical prime, in their late thirties to

end-fifties during this time, right on the

spot to name and define their own

styles. Lots of later renowned schools,

like Shit-Ry, Wad-Ry, ShindJinen-RyorAkid, developed during this era.And even after the foundation of the

styles, the curricular, technical reper-

toires or choice of Katawere oftenrather flowing than fixed. So it is not

surprising that its founders had a strong

desire to discuss their ideas and tech-niques among experts. On the other

hand did the Japanese military apply

(directly or indirectly via the Dai NihonButokukai) from 1932 (Shwa 7) on un-til the end of the war, more and more

pressure on the martial arts scene in

order to create effective concepts for

warfare ( e.g. Ettig (2004), p. 115 and

178 et seq.). That put the established

martial artists into the need to review

and maybe expand their repertoires.

And in the first years after the war,

there was a huge shortage of qualified

teachers and places to train. So every-

body must have been quite eager to getas much instruction as possible.

73 Watatani/Yamada (1978), p. 414.

Not to be confused with Shinden Fud-RyDakentaijutsu (akaShinden Fud-RyTaijutsu HappBiken), a style Gen-

pachiro Tameyoshifounded in the 12thcentury and Takamatsu Toshitsugu(akaTakamatsu Jutaro) (1889-1972) taughtto Dr.Hatsumi Masaaki. Shinden Fud-RyJtaijutsu (aka Shinden Fud-RyTaijutsu)is another school with a similarname, which was taught to Uenoby Ta-kamatsu. e.g. Ettig (2004).74 Watatani/Yamada (1978), p. 414.

The renowned British engineer, self-defense researcher and Bartitsu-founder Edward William Barton-Wright

(1860-1951) should have also studied

this style during his time in Japan at the

end of the nineteenth century.

75 Watatani/Yamada (1978), p. 414.

76 Yamada Haruyoshi, student of TaniChjir(1920-1998) e.g. says that histeacher was taught Karate, KobudandShinden Fud-RyJjutsu by Mabuni.Haruyoshi in Abernethy (2006).

77 Mabuni (1934a) and Mabuni

(1934b).

78 Mabuni (1938), p. 143-180.

79 McCarthy (1999), p. 32.80 Mabuni (2007), p. 53.

81 These Kataare: Pinan Shdan-Godan, Naihanchi Shdan-Sandan,Passai (Dai & Sh), Kshkun (Dai, Sh& Shih), Gojshih, Chint, Chintei,Rhai Shdan-Sandan, Miyojo, Wanshu,Kururunfa, Suparinpei, Sanseiru, Seipai,Seisan, Ananko, Juroku, Aoyagi, Tensh,Sanchin, Seienchin, Shischin, Saifa,Niseishi, Schin, Unsu, Matsumura R-hai, Matsumura Passai, Matsumura Sei-san, Chatanyara Kshkun, IshiminePassai, Nipaipo, Hakucho, Haufa, Jitte,

Jion, Jiin, Wankan, Shinsei, Anan,Paipurenand Shinpa. Mabuni/McKenna(2002), p. 104. Today there are many

sub-versions and groups of Shit-Ry.According to the school, this number

may vary.

82 The Japanese people never had a

high opinion of the Okinawan population.

They mainly regarded Okinawa as a cul-


15/17



turally backward province. Thus also Ka-ratewas viewed with some reserva-tions. In the beginning, Karatewasviewed in Japan in contrast to Kendor

Jdas a barbaric and minor martialart. reports Mabuni Kenei (2007, p.

59).

83 According to his son Kenzo,a Shit-RyKdanshashould know about 30 to40 Kata. As he says, this might take 15 to 25 years of continuous training

and dedication to master. Mabuni Kenzo

in Fraguas (2001), p. 179.

84 Funakoshi Gichinfor example, by hisown account, practiced the three Nai-hanchi(Tekki)-forms constantly for 10years. Funakoshi (1958/1973), p. 38.

additionally also Funakoshi (1975/1993),

p. 25 et seqq. Already in view of this

maxim you could see that with 53 Kataof the style, a whole life of practice just

wouldnt be enough.

85 Mabuni/McKenna (2002), p. 19.86 Mabuni (1934a), p. 15. additionally

also the translations by Mabuni/

Tankosich and Wittwer (2007), p. 127.

87 Mabuni (1934a), p. 15. additionally

also Mabuni/Tankosich.

88 Mabuni/McKenna (2003), p. 8.

89 Mabuni/Nakasone (1938), p. 86 et

seq., also Mabuni/Nakasone

(1938/2000), p. 179 et seqq. Waza wamugen The technique is infinite is oneof the major principles of Mabunisteachings. additionally also Mabuni

(2007), p. 61.

90 Mabuni/McKenna (2003), p. 25- 34,

Mabuni/McKenna (2002), p. 72- 79 andMabuni (1938), p. 169-180.

91 Mabuni (1934b), p. 28-29.

92 Mabuni/McKenna (2003), p. 24-34.

93 Mabuni/Nakasone (1938), p. 176.

94 Mabuni/Nakasone (1938), p. 209.

additionally also the translation by Swift.

95 Mabuni (2007), p. 12.

96 Mabuni (2007), p. 14.

97 Yamaguchi Ggen in McCarthy

(1997), p. 23 and Miyagi Chjun in

McCarthy (1997), p. 23. About the

Bubishi additionally Golinski (2005).98 High (2006).

99 McCarthy (1999), p. 32.

100 Mabuni (2007), p. 12.101 Mabuni Kenzo in Fraguas (2001), p.

178. As Tankosich notes, it remains un-

clear if this number already contains the

Kata Mabunideveloped by himself. Ma-buni/Tankosich.

102 Mabuni (2007), p. 53.

103 Mabuni/McKenna (2002), p. 102, p.

9.

104 Motobu in Mabuni/McKenna (2002),

p. 102.

105 Mabuni (2007), p. 12.

106 tsuka in McCarthy (1999), p. 18.

107 McCarthy (1999), p. 24 and Mabuni

(2007), p. 52. additionally also Mabuni/

Tankosich.

108 Mabuni (2007), p. 130.

109 e.g. Mabuni (2007), p. 130.

110 Mabuni (2007), p. 130.

111 Mabuni (2007), p. 130.

112 Mabuni Kenei in Noble (2006b).

113 Mabuni (2007), p. 130.


Mabuni/Tankosich.


Mabuni/Tankosich and Wittwer (2007),

p. 127.116 Mabuni (1934a), p. 15. additionally

Mabuni/Tankosich.

117 For the time of his life, Funakoshi

himself was a strict opponent of the dif-ferentiation of Karateinto several stylesand also dissociated himself from the

term Shtkan-Ry. In his autobiogra-phy he wrote: One serious problem, in

my opinion, which besets present-day

Karate-D, is the prevalence of diver-gent schools. I believe that this will have

a deleterious effect on the future devel-

opment of the art. [...]There is no place

in contemporary Karate-Dfor differentschools. [...] Indeed, I have heard my-

self and my colleagues referred to as the

Shtkanschool, but I strongly object tothis attempt at classification. My belief is

that all these schools should be amal-gamated into one so that Karate-Dmaypursue an orderley and useful progress

into mans future. Funakoshi

(1975/1993), p. 62 et seqq. In Karate-DNymon you can find a similar state-ment: I have never given a name to the

KarateI am studying, but some of mystudents call it Shtkan-Ry. Funako-shi (1943/1988), p. 28.

118 The exact number of Funakoshisteachers is vague. Wittwer (2007), p.

121, names besidesAsatoand Itosu,with Matsumura Skon,Aragaki Seish,HigashionnaKany(1848-1922), Kiyna

(1845-1920), KojDaitei(1837-1917)and Tawada(1851-1907), at least sixadditional ones.

119 Funakoshi (1943/1988), p. 22.

120 Funakoshi (1975/1993), p. 21 et

seq.

121 e.g. Wittwer (2007), p. 40.

122 McCarthy (1989).

123 e.g. Tokitsu (1988) and Wittwer

(2007), p. 138. McCarthy (1989), names

1905 (Meiji 38). According to McCarthy(1999, p. 12) Mabuni was Itosus majorstudent during those days.

124 Together with six other examees,

like tsuka Hironori orKasuya Masahiro

(1888-1969), did Gima pass the firstKarate-grading under Funakoshi Gichinon the 12thof April, 1924 (Taish13).Bittmann (2000), p. 100.

125 Gima in Wittwer (2007), p. 139.

126 Nagamine/McCarthy (2000), p. 71.

127 Fujiwara in McCarthy (1999), p. 12,

and also the translation of a similar

statement of Fujiwara in Wittwer (2007),

p. 140.

128 Tokitsu (1984) and additionally also

Noble (2006a).

129 Pinan (Heian) (Shdan-Godan),Passai (Bassai) Dai, Kshkun (Kank)Dai, Wanshu (Empi), Chint(Gankaku),

Jitte, Seisan (Hangetsu), Naihanchi(Tekki) (Shdan-Sandan), Jion.130 e.g. Funakoshi (1958/1973), p. 9

and p. 35 et seqq. He names 19 Kataatwhich Taikyoku Shdan-Sandanand Tenno Kataare just forms of practice, whichwere created by Funakoshi and do nothold traditional Katain the closer sense.

131 Funakoshi (1943/1988), p. 49 and

additionally Wittwer (2007), p. 130 and

170.

132 Although this organisation claims to

follow Funakoshis teachings, [ Naka-yama in Hassel (1997), p. 41 and http://www.jka.or.jp/english/about/history.

html], they could not, after Funakoshisdeath, win over any of his senior stu-

dents like Egami Shigeru(1912-1981),Hironishi Genshin(1913-1999) or Nogu-chi Hiroshi.133 For any further information, please

have e.g. a look at Nakayamas BestKarate Series, Vol. 5-11 and Kana-zawas two Shtkan Karate Kata-books.

134 The original JKA has split into sev-

eral different (sub-) organisations during

the last years. Former famous expo-

nents, likeAsai Tetsuhiko(1935-2006,10thDan), Kanazawa Hirokazu(*1931,

10thDan), Kase Taiji(1929-2004, 10thDan) or Nishiyama Hidetaka(*1928,10thDan) have found their own federa-tions and unions, with sometimes some,

sometimes no connection to the JKA.

Although all of them have written lots of

Kata-books, they usually remain quiteshallow when it comes to statements

about the transmission of their styles

Kata.135 Mabuni (2007), p. 55. This must

have taken place in between 1922

(Taish11) and 1928 (Shwa3).136 Chambers, p. 2. The assertion that

Mabunialso taught Nakayama Masatoshi

(1913-1987) in those days is wrong, asNakayamawas just 15 years of age in1928 (Shwa3) and, by his own accountjust started his Karate-training (with Fu-nakoshi Gichin) in 1932 (Shwa7). Na-kayama in Hassel (1997), p. 27.

137 McCarthy (1999), p. 25.

138 Mabuni Kenzo in Fraguas (2001), p.

183. Most likely there is a falsity in the

date, as Nakayamaby his own account( Nakayama in Hassel (1997), p. 49)

just came back from China to Japan in

1946 (Shwa21). Another indicator fora wrong year is a photo, showing Ma-buni, Funakoshi, Obata, Nakayamaand

Sakagamiat

sakamain station in 1948(Shwa 23).139 Mabuni Kenzo in Fraguas (2001), p.

183. According to Funakoshis statementin Karate-DNymon (1943/1988, p.49) the Unsu- and Gojshiho-formshave however already been practiced at

the Shtkanin 1943 (Shwa18). Thereremains a need for clarification.

140 Nakayama in Hassel (1997), p. 86.

141 McCarthy (1999), p. 25.

142 Like e.g. Kiba-Dachiinstead ofShiko-Dachi, Kkutsu- instead of Neko-

Ashi-Dachi, Yoko- instead of Mae-Geri,Tate-Shut- instead of Kake-Shut-Uke.Or the execution of Manji-Ukein K-kutsu- instead of Zenkutsu-Dachi.143 E.g. Hayashi Teruo(1924-2004, Ha-yashi Ha Shit-Ry), Sakagami Rysh(Itosukai-Ry), Gusukuma Shinpan(Shiroma Shit-Ry), Tani Chjir(1921-1998, Tani Ha Shit-ry) orIwataManzo (Shitkai).


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144 Mabuni/Nakasone (1938), p. 209

and Swift.

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Mabuni, Kenwa (1938): A r a g a k i S -c h i n , in: Nakasone, Genwa (ed.), K a -r a t e - D T a ik a n ( O v e r v ie w o n t h eW a y o f t h e E m p t y H a n d ) , Tky1938(Reprint 1991), p. 143-180.

Mabuni, Kenwa/ McKenna, Mario (trans.)(1934/2002): KbJi z a i G o s h i n j u t s uK a r a t e K e n p The F r ee Se l f - d e f e n s e A r t o f K a r a t e K e n p , (Jap.original edition published in 1934),

(www.mariomckenna.com) 2002.

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(1934/2003): Spa i no K en ky TheSt ud y o f S e i p a i , (Jap. original editionpublished in 1934), (www.mariomckenna.

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(1938/2000): H a l t u n g d e s H e r z e n s

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Em p t y H a n d ; M a s t e r s o f t h e F o u r B i gS t y l e s a n d t h e i r T e a ch i n g ) , Ludwigs-burg 22000, p. 169-187.

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(1938): K a r a t e - D N ym o n .B e t s um e i : K a r a t e j u t s u K y h a n( I n t r o d u c t i o n t o t h e W a y o f t h eEm p t y H a n d . Se c t i o n N am e : T e a ch - i n g M e t h o d o f t h e A r t o f t h e E m p t yH a n d ) , Tky1938.

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In Taiwan I met one of the oldmen of Shehequan, master Liu-Song-Shan. Hi is an uncle of mySifu (brother of my Sifu's father,Liu Yi-Shan). At age of 83 he isstill practicing Shehequan[Feeding Crane quanfa] every day.He is a headmaster of the family

tradition of Shehequan.

It was Master Liu who was askedby the famous Shihan of Okina-wan karate, Patrick McCarthy, to

disclose the information aboutShehequan and Shaolin TongjienBu [Shaolin Bronze Man manual], andthe secrets of Liu family [WhiteCrane style]. Master Liu was

very helpful. Most of informationabout Shehequan in PatrickMcCarthy's book Bubishi - TheBible of Karate comes from MrLiu. This is what Master Liu saidabout their meeting.

How and when did you meetPatrick McCarthy?It was quite long ago, during myvisit to China as a representativeof Shehequan. The Fuzhou Mar-

tial Arts Association at that timehad organized a competitivegathering, and symposium in or-der to research the roots of vari-ous fighting arts, which were infear of being lost in China. She-hequan was one of them. No oneexcept our family and our areain Taiwan practices this systemat the moment. However it is avery famous fighting system.That was why Fuzhou Wushu As-

sociation was interested in it.Mr. McCarthy was also taking apart in those meetings as he wasresearching the roots of Okina-wan karate and other martialarts of Okinawa which comefrom our system. His intentionwas to translate into English andpublish the Wuwezhi (Bubishi).He was also very interested inShihequan.

As far as I know Mr.

McCarthy is fluent in speak-ing Japanese, but I did notknow that he also speaksChinese.No, he did not speak [Mandarin]Chinese but my Japanese isquite good and so that's how wecommunicated.

What sort of information wasMr. McCarthy after?Everything what was associated

with Wuweizhi. He was alsosearching for a copy of this bookmade outside of Okinawa. Mr.McCarthy heard about ShaolinTongjien Bu [Bronz Man book]

and that was why he came toChina. An Okinawan Bubishi ex-ists which in Chinese is calledWuweizhi. It is also not unknownbook in Taiwan and Hong Kong,Singapore and China. As theBubishi contains a lot of Crane-style quanfa information, thosepeople interested in the Bubishiwould also be interested in ourstyle. Apart from this the con-tent of Bubishi does not vary

much from our copy of theShaolin Tongjien Bu.

What can you say aboutmeetings and tournaments inFuzhou?It was simply a tournament ofmartial arts [seminars] andmeeting of many masters andcoaches. I remember a very tallYugoslavian; here I have a pho-tograph with him (Sifu is show-

ing his album). He was trying tosurprise me with one of his highkick, perhaps he was practisingnorthern Shaolin, never mind.He attacked me with this kickbut I defended myself this way(Sifu demonstrated this tech-niques on me). He flew a coupleof metres back and after he didnot want to discuss the effec-tiveness of Shehequan.

Apart from this I met many peo-

ple, for example head master ofMinhequan. His formal exerciseslooked very elegant (as opposeto my because lets face thetruth Shehequan is not pretty). I

Secrets

of White Crane

By Paul Wolos

Master Liu Yin-Shan.

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