Explorer’s Collection JAPAN

OKINAWA – Learn the essence of “OKINAWA KARATE” in Okinawa, the birthplace of karate

Do you know where karate originated? It originated in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.
The prefecture lies at the southwestern edge of Japan and has a subtropical maritime climate. It consists of 160 large and small islands scattered in a vast sea area of 1,000 km from east to west and 400 km from north to south. Covered with green, the island prefecture provides habitats for precious plants and animals. Okinawa also lies about midway between the main island of Japan and the Southeast Asian region. The surrounding sea area is encircled by coral reefs within the Kuroshio Current.
Karate spread from Okinawa Prefecture to the world. As the birthplace of karate, Okinawa still keeps the essence of karate alive. Visitors to Okinawa Karate Kaikan in Tomigusuku City can learn the history and culture of OKINAWA KARATE. We were fortunate to film the performance of Tsutomu Nakahodo, an 89-year-old Uechi-Ryu master from Okinawa Karatedo Kyokai, and have a special interview with him. For an 89-year-old, his body moved agilely, representing the very essence of karate. Even now, the 89-year-old master keeps practicing. “There is no end to karate,” he said.
Please visit Okinawa Prefecture, the birthplace of karate, and experience the essence of OKINAWA KARATE.
Okinawa Karate Information Center OKINAWA KARATE KAIKAN