The families from Min, known as the 36 families from Min (閩人三十六姓), were sent to the Ryukyu Islands (modern-day Okinawa) under the orders of the Ming Chinese Emperor. These families hailed from the Min region of Fujian Province in southern China. During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the Ming Emperor recognized the strategic importance of maintaining […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
The Natural Beauty of Okinawa. Okinawa, a group of islands located in the southernmost part of Japan, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and meticulously maintained gardens. These natural wonders hold great importance, both culturally and environmentally, making Okinawa a haven for nature enthusiasts and visitors alike. Okinawa’s landscapes showcase a diverse range of natural […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
The history of Japan’s mythical lion dogs, known as shisa, is rooted in Okinawan folklore and cultural traditions. Shisa is often depicted as a pair of lion-like creatures, with one having an open mouth and the other a closed mouth. These mythical beings are believed to have protective and warding-off powers, serving as guardians against […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
Exploring the Enchanting Tapestry of Okinawan Culture. Language: Preserving Uchinaaguchi – The Unique Language of Okinawa. In Okinawa, there’s a language called Uchinaaguchi which is quite different from Japanese. It has its own dialects and expressions. People are working hard to make sure this unique language doesn’t disappear, with language education programs and cultural initiatives […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
The history of martial arts belts, particularly the black belt and the introduction of colored belts, encompasses various stories and influences that have shaped the ranking system we know today. Let’s delve into the fascinating journey behind the development of this significant aspect of martial arts. Myths and legends. There are a couple of legends […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
Shurijo Castle, located in Naha, the capital city of Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural legacy of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Over its existence of approximately 450 years, Shurijo Castle served as the political, diplomatic, and cultural epicenter of the Ryukyuan civilization. The castle, known for its distinctive architecture, […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
The development of the judogi can be attributed to Grandmaster Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo, during the late 1800s. Kano aimed to create a durable training uniform capable of withstanding the demands of grappling techniques. Drawing inspiration from the robust attire worn by Japanese firefighters of that era, who relied on heavy hemp jackets […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
Karate, a martial art that has captured the imaginations of millions worldwide, has a rich history that dates back centuries. Originating in the ancient civilizations of China before finding their way to the Okinawa islands of Japan, Karate has evolved through cultural exchanges, invasions, and the indomitable spirit of its practitioners. In this article, I […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
Kung Fu, also known as Wushu, is a form of Chinese martial arts that has a long and rich history dating back thousands of years. The origins of Kung Fu can be traced back to the ancient Chinese dynasties, where it was developed as a means of self-defense and combat training. The earliest known records […]