The Wado-Ryu style of Karate was founded by Hironori Ohtsuka in the early 20th century and is a synthesis of Okinawan Karate-do and Japanese Budo arts.

Hironori Ohtsuka was a Jujitsu master when he first began learing Karate from Karate giants such as Gichin Funakoshi, Kenwa Mabuni and Choki Motobu. From the teachings of these great men he created the core Kata of Wado-Ryu, and created Kumite techniques based on both these Kata and the Jujitsu techniques of which he had mastered.

Kenwa Mabuni (right) and Choki Motobu

Wado-Ryu is famous for its speed, and body-shifting techniques. It enphasises the importance of evasion particularly when facing an armed opponent. Wado-Ryu Karate can not be mastered without learning to move in a natural manner.

It is this emphasis on the natural movement of the human body that separates Wado-Ryu from many other Karate styles that rely on muscular power rather than scientific principles.

Wado-Ryu Founder, Hironori Ohtsuka

Wado-Ryu philosophy draws on both the ancient Shinto traditions as well as Zen. Ohtsuka Sensei taught that in order for the human to be perfected he must first become harmonised with the universe and the world in which he lived. Therefore, a deep understanding of the laws of nature and human weaknesses as well as strengths leads to complete harmony - Wa.

Original Wado-Ryu Jujitsu Techniques