History of Shotokan Karate
Shotokan Karate-Do draws from the methods of the ancient Okinawan masters, classical karate and techniques of several of the old schools of Japanese swordsmanship. Its hard and graceful fighting techniques offer an effective system of self defense.
Shotokan Karate-Do was founded by an Okinawan karate master named Gichin Funakoshi. He was asked by the Japanese government to give a demonstration and they were so impressed that they asked him to stay and teach karate. He devoted his life to the teaching and the development of karate. He is credited with popularizing karate as it is today and is referred to as the father of modern karate. One of his last living students is the founder and chief instructor of our organization, Kanazawa Hirokazu.
History of Shotokan Karate-Do International Federation (SKIF)
SKIF was founded in December 1977 by Sensei Hirokazu Kanazawa. With over 1,700,000 active members, representing more than 100 countries, SKIF continues to grow worldwide, fostering the ideals and standards of Shotokan Karate-Do. Our traditional values are passed down from Sensei to students as we grow into the 21st century.