Welcome to Japan Budo Shito Ryu, Shitō-ryū is one of the four major styles of karate, alongside Shotokan, Gōjū-ryū, and Wadō-ryū. It was founded by Kenwa Mabuni in 1934, who combined the teachings of his two primary instructors: Ankō Itosu (Shuri-te) and Kanryō Higaonna (Naha-te). The name "Shitō" is derived from the first kanji characters of their names: "Shi" from Itosu and "Tō" from Higaonna.
Origins and Philosophy
Kenwa Mabuni, born in Shuri, Okinawa, in 1889, began his martial arts training at the age of 13 under Ankō Itosu. Later, he studied under Kanryō Higaonna, gaining insights into both the linear techniques of Shuri-te and the circular movements of Naha-te. Mabuni's dedication to preserving and teaching a comprehensive set of kata led him to develop Shitō-ryū, aiming to unify the diverse roots of karate.
Technical Characteristics
Shitō-ryū is characterized by its blend of hard and soft techniques, combining the physical strength and long stances of Shuri-te with the circular movements and breathing power of Naha-te. This fusion results in a style that is both fast and powerful, emphasizing speed and economy of movement. Practitioners often initiate techniques from a higher, more upright stance compared to other styles like Shotokan.
