Funakoshi

Funakoshi Gichin (1868–1957) was an Okinawan martial artist who helped bring karate to mainland Japan and founded Shotokan karate-do, the most widely practiced style of karate in the world. Born in Shuri, Okinawa, he studied traditional Okinawan karate under masters such as Anko Itosu and Anko Azato, incorporating elements of Shuri-te and Tomari-te into a modern system.

In the early 20th century, Funakoshi moved to Tokyo to teach karate and demonstrate its techniques. He played a central role in popularizing karate in Japan, emphasizing its philosophy as a discipline for personal development as well as self-defense. In 1931 he established the Shotokan dojo in Tokyo, from which the style and its organizational structures expanded. The name Shotokan comes from his pen name Shoto, meaning pine waves, combined with kan, hall, to form the hall of the Shoto school.

Funakoshi promoted karate-do as a lifelong path, stressing correct etiquette, consistent practice, and character building. He authored early writings that helped standardize terminology, forms (katas), and the philosophy of karate, contributing to the systematization and international spread of the art. His teachings influenced generations of practitioners who formed organizations and schools dedicated to Shotokan karate around the world.

Today, Funakoshi’s legacy endures through Shotokan karate and its global community. His work is credited with shaping how karate is practiced, taught, and interpreted as a martial art with a focus on technique, discipline, and personal development rather than merely fighting skill.