Shotokan Karate (Gichin Funakoshi)

A collective term for combat techniques that developed uniquely in Okinawa. While influenced by Chinese martial arts, it formed its own technical system. Rooted in local beliefs and customs, it maintains distinct traditions separate from the mainland karate styles after the Meiji period. Currently, Okinawa emphasizes preservation of Uchinaa-ti traditions, with revival of unique lineages and training methods underway. It represents a core physical discipline of Okinawan culture.

A karate style founded by Hironori Otsuka that fused jujutsu and karate. 'Wado' means the way of harmony, characterized by flexible body mechanics utilizing the opponent's force. Emphasizes balance between aesthetic kata performance and practical application. Recognized as one of modern karate's most refined technical systems and valued by international karate organizations.

A karate style founded by Masutatsu Oyama emphasizing practical fighting ability. Based on the philosophy of 'maximum power with minimum movement,' known for rigorous contact-based sparring training. Legendary training methods including sumo with bulls and confrontations with wild animals are part of its lore. Significantly influenced the development of international karate competition.

A Japanese martial art originating in Okinawa, primarily using strikes and kicks. Rooted in the karate of the Ryukyu Kingdom era, it developed into four major schools—Shotokan, Goju-ryu, Shito-ryu, and Wado-ryu—after spreading to mainland Japan. Adopted as an official sport at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, it has over 100 million practitioners worldwide.

A striking martial art originating from Okinawa's tode during the Ryukyu Kingdom. Centered around four major styles—Shotokan, Goju-ryu, Shito-ryu, and Wado-ryu—it is practiced by approximately 100 million people in over 200 countries. Included as an official Olympic sport at the 2021 Tokyo Games, its philosophy emphasizes self-defense and character development.

A martial art originating in Okinawa, using bare-handed fighting featuring kicks, strikes, and thrusts. Developing under Ryukyuan cultural influence, it spread globally after the 1960s. Now practiced across five continents, it was first adopted as an official Olympic sport in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

The largest faction of karate, which originated in Okinawa. Founded by Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan. Known for powerful punches and kicks, emphasizing forms and sparring training. Adopted as an Olympic sport, it is the most widely practiced karate style globally. Recognized internationally as a representative Japanese martial art.

Karate school originating from Okinawa emphasizing harmony between hard and soft techniques, reflected in its name. Emphasizes breathing methods with powerful forms and fluid movements. One of Japan's two major karate styles alongside Shotokan, widely practiced internationally.

An Okinawan karate style founded by Chojun Miyagi in 1930, blending hardness and softness with Chinese martial arts influence. It emphasizes breathing techniques and flexible body movements, characterized by integrated full-body actions. Widely practiced globally with a strong traditional lineage.