Shotokan (松涛館, Shōtōkan) is a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi (1868–1957) and his son Gigo (Yoshitaka) Funakoshi (1906–1945).
Shotokan Karate focuses on wide stances and linear techniques allow the usage of hands, elbows, knees, and feet to deliver strikes quickly and effectively. The Shotokan philosophy focuses not only on self-defense but also on overall improvement.
The Martial Art School known as Shotokan has a long and rich history dating back 18th century. Formalized as a school in 1939 by Gichin Funakoshi based on Okinawan Karate, its Shotokai and Shotokan Masters have shared this magnificent art throughout the world.
Shotokan Karate is a dynamic martial art style created by the late, great Gichin Funakoshi. The style is characterized by highly concentrated striking, forthright blocking, powerful stances, and a series of captivating kata.
Discover Shotokan karate, a dynamic martial art founded by Gichin Funakoshi in Okinawa. Learn its history, techniques, and the philosophy behind this widely practiced dojo.
Shotokan karate is a dynamic, anaerobic karate style that is widely practiced around the globe. The style was named after Gichin Funakoshi's and his son Gigo Yoshitaka Funakoshi's first official dojo in Okinawa, which was built in 1936.
Master Funakoshi taught only one method, a total discipline, which represented a blending of Okinawan karate styles and Japanese budo. This method became known as Shotokan-Ryu. It was through Master Funakoshi’s hard work that in 1948, the Japan Karate Association (JKA) was established.
The ISKF is a global community dedicated to the art of traditional Shotokan Karate. Established by Master Teruyuki Okazaki, a direct disciple of Master Gichin Funakoshi—the revered founder of Shotokan—our organization preserves and promotes the timeless values and teachings of authentic karate.