Japan Karate Center

Shito-Ryu Genbu-Kai Karate

 

FUMIO DEMURA

Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Genbu-Kai was founded in 2000 by Shihan Fumio Demura, as an organization who's goal is to preserve and pass on the teachings of his Sensei, Ryusho Sakagami (3rd Headmaster of the Itosu-Ryu style).  Shihan Demura is the most famous student of Mr. Sakagami, and is known throughout the world karate community as one of the foremost experts in Karate and Kobudo.  Mr. Sakagami was the most senior student of Kenwa Mabuni (2nd Headmaster of the Itosu-Ryu style) and was recognized as an expert in Karate Kata.  Mr. Sakagami went on to form the Itosu-Kai organization after Mr. Mabuni's death.  Mr. Mabuni founded the Shito-Ryu style of Karate, combining elements of several styles of karate, mainly Shuri-Te and Naha-Te.  He named the style Shito-Ryu in honor of his two teachers, Anko Itosu and Kanryo Higaonna.  Today, Shito-Ryu is one of the most popular styles of Karate.

The Shito-Ryu style of Karate is characterized by speed of technique and body movement.  It primarily utilizes quick, snapping techniques.  Techniques get their power through quick hip movement.  The Shito-Ryu style places a heavy emphasis on Kata with over 60 total Kata in the system.  Kenwa Mabuni, a student of both Anko Itosu and Kanryo Higaonna, essentially brought the two styles together while adding to them from various Chinese sources.

The fast and slow movements of Shito-Ryu Kata flow together effortlessly, creating a form which is as effective as it is beautiful.