30/05/2026
Today we honour Tatsuo Shimabuku Sensei (島袋 龍夫先生), founder of Isshin-Ryū Karate (一心流空手), who passed away 51 years ago.
September 19, 1908 – May 30, 1975
More than five decades after his passing, Shimabuku Sensei’s teachings continue to inspire karateka around the world. Through his vision, dedication, and pursuit of effective self-defence, he created a system that combined elements of Okinawan karate and kobudō into what became Isshin-Ryū—“The Way of One Heart” (一心流).
His legacy lives on in every dojo, every kata, every act of discipline, respect, and perseverance demonstrated by his students and their successors.