Kokusai-Dori (International Street) is the central hub of activity in Naha, Okinawa’s capital city. The street is a popular tourist destination that offers a wide range of experiences, from shopping to dining to exploring local culture. History and Name Origin Kokusai-Dori’s name comes from the “Ernie Pyle International Theater,” which was constructed after World War […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
Five years after the devastating fire in 2019, Shurijo Castle has undergone a remarkable restoration. The efforts have focused on rebuilding the damaged structures and preserving the cultural heritage of this iconic site. With an expected completion date in 2026, the restoration project aims to return the castle to its former glory while ensuring it […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
Muso Gonnosuke’s Journey In the world of martial arts, tales spin around legendary figures like Miyamoto Musashi. Yet, there’s a twist in the narrative – Muso Gonnosuke Katsuyoshi, an intriguing character who, according to legends, managed to defeat Musashi using an unusual weapon: a simple wooden stick. The Mystery of Gonnosuke Facts about Muso Gonnosuke’s […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
During my travels in Okinawa, I had the exciting opportunity to meet James Pankiewicz, a key figure in Okinawan martial arts. James Pankiewicz is a well-known figure in Okinawan martial arts. He moved to Okinawa over a decade ago and has since become an integral part of the local karate scene. James founded the Dojo […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
The Art of the Short Staff “杖道” is translated as “Jodo.” This term signifies the Way of the Short Staff, highlighting the art of wielding a staff or stick as a weapon in martial practice. The Weapon At the heart of Jodo and Jojutsu is the “jo,” a simple yet versatile weapon. This short staff, […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
A traditional Japanese martial art that revolves around the use of a weapon known as the naginata, which is a long polearm with a curved blade at the end. Its name was first visible in the Kojiki1 (A Record of Ancient Matters, 712). The practice of naginatajutsu has historical roots, dating back to feudal Japan, […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
The historical intersection of cultures often brings forth tales of remarkable individuals whose impacts reverberate through the annals of time. In the context of Okinawa’s rich martial arts heritage, the name Kusanku emerges as a symbol of this intricate tapestry of interactions. Through the writings of Tobe Ryoen and records such as the Ōshima Hikki, […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
In the world of martial arts, the origins and evolution of various techniques often hold a certain mystique. One such intrigue revolves around the connection between Okinawan dance, known as Mēkata (Okinawa dialect meaning way of dancing), and the development of Karate. Mēkata, also written as 舞方, stands as an ancient and revered form of […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
As I delve into the history and origins of Kata Jion 慈恩, it becomes evident that there is limited available information about this particular Kata. The belief is that the roots of this Kata can be traced back to China, primarily due to the presence of the term “Jion,” a Buddhist term documented in ancient […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
Wanshu, a Kata practiced in many martial arts styles, is a great Kata, with a long history. Wanshu is one of the most popular Kata among Okinawan karate systems. The name Wanshu in Mandarin means “Excellent Wrist” and refers to a typical technique of this form. Another translation of the word “Wanshu” is “dumping form,” […]