琉球唐手術国際研究会にようこそ
The International Ryukyu Karate Research Society
Where like-minded people have been coming together in pursuit of common goals through the art of Karate since 1988.
Ichariba chode 行逢りば兄弟
An Okinawan expression …
“Though we meet but once, even by chance, we are friends for life.”
Embracing Classical Tradition through Contemporary Insight
Independently leading the way since 1988, the IRKRS brings together like-minded people in pursuit of common goals and welcomes all, irrespective of style…
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Highly recommended books …
This revised 2001 publication is a comprehensive compilation of Japanese-to-English translated articles by and about Funakoshi Gichin, revered as the father of modern karate. It offers an in-depth exploration of Funakoshi’s life, his philosophies, and his personal journey in introducing the once-secret art of empty-handed self-defense to mainland Japan.
The work delves into the man behind the art, his background, and the early history of karate, intimately revealed through Funakoshi’s own writings. It is enriched with rare, historical photographs, portraits, and other related materials that provide valuable insight into his experiences and beliefs. The collection also presents some of Funakoshi’s earliest writings, dating back to 1913, including his reflections on the origins of karate, his perspective on its introduction to Japan, and cherished memories of his teacher, Azato Ankō, among other topics.
This is not a book for beginners or casual readers but is instead tailored for historians, researchers, Shotokan karate practitioners, and those with a deep interest in the evolution of karate in the early 20th century. Enhanced with translated calligraphy and many pages of rare historical imagery, this publication is a treasure trove of knowledge, deserving a place on the shelf of every serious student and instructor of Shotokan and karate as a whole.
“Kensei, Kyan Chōtoku; The Man and his Art,” is a work by, the IRKRS. It is a compilation of various Kyan Chōtoku-related material; His youth, education and impact upon the fighting arts, along with a look at the highly controversial 1898 Ryukyu Shimpo articles, the 1920s Taiwan incident, his 1929 interview and the 1936 round table gathering through to his 1942 article, “Karate no Omoide.” A smattering of rare photos, various individual testimonials from personal students, and, for the first time ever, his recently discovered,1932 unpublished work, “Okinawa Kenpo Karate-do Kihon Zukai Kumite.” There’s more, too; Recently discovered hand brushed calligraphy by his father, Chōfu; his personal bo, gi and actual burial tomb, along with the support of, and additional contributions by, Irei Hiroshi, Shimabukuro Zenpo, Hokama Tetsuhiro, Konno Bin, Tokumura Kensho, Dan Smith, Miguel Da Luz, Brian Arthur, James Pankiewicz, Joe Swift, Scot Mertz, Graham Noble, James Hatch, Andy Sloane, Charles Goodin, Neal Simpson and many more! This work should be on the bookshelves of any and all serious traditional Karate enthusiast regardless of style…
“Kensei, Kyan Chotoku, The Man & His Art”
Review by Dan Smith;
Seibukan USA Shibucho
I had the privilege of receiving an advanced copy of Patrick McCarthy Sensei’s latest masterpiece, “Kensei, Kyan Chotoku, The Man & His Art,” a meticulously researched and eloquently written exploration of the life and accomplishments of Kyan Chotoku (1870-1945). This literary work is a captivating journey into the transformation of 19th-century Okinawan karate, skillfully guiding us through its evolution into the 20th century.
The anticipation heightened as I received the book a few days ago at 7 am, presented in the form of a PDF along with a request for pre-publishing feedback. Intrigued and eager for insights, I began with a cursory scan, only to find myself immediately captivated by the narrative. Such was the depth of engagement that I promptly rearranged my daily plans. Six hours later, having traversed the pages with unwavering attention, I found myself immersed in a comprehensive compilation of both previously published works and groundbreaking new research.
McCarthy’s work emerges as an invaluable resource, providing readers with a nuanced and analytical exploration of all facets of Kyan’s legacy. It is a commendable effort that shines a light on the intricacies of Okinawan karate’s genesis and its crucial transition across a challenging era.
I wholeheartedly recommend Patrick McCarthy Sensei’s work to anyone with a keen interest in Kyan’s legacy and the pivotal juncture when Okinawa karate crossed the threshold from the 19th to the 20th century. In essence, my assessment of the book was so profound that I promptly reached out to my teacher, Shimabukuro Zenpo Hanshi, to share my unequivocal opinion—describing it as nothing short of “brilliant.”
“Legend of the Fist” is a wonderful compilation of Japanese-to-English translations, surrounding rare and original works by early Okinawan Karate pioneers, carried out by Patrick and Yuriko McCarthy over the past thirty years. It is a totally unique book of knowledge filled with insightful wisdom and a plethora of vintage photos that is sure to bring you closer to understanding both the original Okinawan art and its early personalities.
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