Definition: Shito-Ryu is the blend of Naha-te (hard/soft) and Shuri-te (quick/light).

Shito-Ryu, along with Goju-Ryu, Wado-Ryu and Shotokan, is one of the four major karate systems of Japan (the Japanese islands excluding Okinawa).  It was founded by Kenwa Mabuni (1899-1952), who, like most of karate’s old masters, was descended from Okinawa’s so-called warrior (bushi) class or aristocracy.  Members of his family served Okinawan lords for hundreds of years.  Mabuni started karate training at the age of 13 under Anko Itosu (1830-1915), the man who organized early karate in the Okinawan school system.

From Itosu, he mastered the quick and light-like (Shorin) techniques.  Itosu was not Mabuni’s only teacher, however, while still in his teens, Mabuni was introduced by his friend, Chojun Miyagi (the founder of Goju-Ryu karate) to Kanryo Higoanna (1853-1915).  From Higaonna, Mabuni learned Naha-te, a Chinese-influenced karate style.  Here he mastered the slow (Goju) techniques emphasizing dynamic breathing and muscular control.

Mabuni also trained under Arakaki Kamadeunchu (1840-1918), who taught a style similar to Higaonna.

Shihan Lewis and

Kenzo Mabuni Soke