30/07/2023
Hinronori Ohtsuka was an accomplished master in JuJitsu and Shindo Yoshin Ryu when the founder of Shotokan Master Gichin Funakoshi introduced Karate into Japan. Master Ohtsuka began his study and practise of Karate in 1922 and six years later was Funakoshi's assistant instructor. Master Ohtsuka's Martial Arts career spanned 60 years and in that time he received the greatest accolade of 'Meijin', the highest title available and the first man ever to earn this honour. Master Ohtsuka combined all of the previous styles he had experienced to create one style that mirrored Japanese Budo, recognising it as a true Japanese martial art called Wado Ryu meaning the 'Way of Peace'. Master Ohtsuka officially registered the name Wado Ryu in 1939. Wado Ryu is unique and differentiates itself from other styles of Karate by emphasising evasive body movements, which avoid strikes, and attacks with blocking becoming a secondary defence. Wado Ryu also encompasses various throws and arm locks practised in JuJitsu. In essence Wado Ryu has been recognised as one of the fastest most fluid moving Karate styles with the training emphasis on Kumite or fight techniques with a balance of Kata or Form. As a consequence of Wado Ryu's speed and delivery it is also one of the few Karate styles encouraging competition fighting.
