Shotokan is a style of karate that is no longer a martial art. It was changed in Okinawa to a more modern form prior to its introduction to Japan. I...

Shotokan is a style of karate that is no longer a martial art. It was changed in Okinawa to a more modern form prior to its introduction to Japan. Its evolution to a sport has taken place in order to be accepted by the Japanese as a Japanese art, not an Okinawan art. Okinawan’s were very much looked down apon by the Japanese at that time. What we all have been taught and continue to practice is essentially Japanese university sport karate. The Butokukai would not certify karate officially unless there were standards for instructors, belt ranking and a competition format like Judo or Kendo. Karate only became popular in the universities and when these students graduated, they continued training at the hombu dojo. Takushoku university has had the most influence. The JKA developed the instructor training program and sent their graduates across the globe to spread the university style of karate whe now know. Shotokan is made up of many styles of Okinawan karate and has scientifically developed into the techniques we have today. If you want to get back to the martial art, then I recommend you read the Bubishi-the bible of karate by Patrick McKarthy or check out the Kissaki-kai of Vince Morris. They are on the right track toward what origianlly was karate.

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