05/30/2026
Tatsuo Shimabuku - the founder of Isshinryu Karate, passed away on this date 51 years ago. His hope was for Isshinryu Karate to grow beyond Okianawa and to bring people together as they trained in this innovative martial art style.
Today, we pause to remember the founder of our beloved art, Soke Tatsuo Shimabuku.
On May 30, 1975, the Isshinryu community lost the man whose vision, dedication, and innovation gave birth to a style that would spread across the world and touch countless lives.
More than five decades later, his influence remains evident in every dojo, every kata, every act of discipline, and every student who steps onto the training floor seeking personal growth through Isshinryu Karate.
While generations have passed since Soke’s time, the values he embodied—humility, perseverance, respect, and continuous improvement—remain at the heart of our practice today.
As members of the global Isshinryu family, we honor his memory with gratitude and recommit ourselves to preserving and sharing the legacy he entrusted to us.
May we never forget the man whose teachings continue to unite us across countries, organizations, and generations.
Domo Arigato Gozaimash*ta, Soke Tatsuo Shimabuku.
Forever Honored. Never Forgotten.
