Shotokan (松濤館 Shōtōkan) is a traditional style of karate that originated from the synthesis of various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi (1868–1957) and his son Gigo (Yoshitaka) Funakoshi (1906–1945). Born in Okinawa, Gichin Funakoshi is widely credited with popularizing “karate do” through a series of impactful public demonstrations. He also played a significant role in establishing and fostering the growth of university karate clubs, including those at Keio, Waseda, Hitotsubashi (Shodai), Takushoku, Chuo, Gakushuin, and Hosei.

After Funakoshi's passing in 1957, many of his students from university clubs and external dojos continued to spread the teachings of karate. However, internal disagreements, particularly regarding the belief that competition contradicts the essence of karate, resulted in the formation of various organizations. This led to an initial divide between the Japan Karate Association, led by Masatoshi Nakayama, and the Shotokai, led by Motonobu Hironishi and Shigeru Egami, followed by numerous others. As a result, there is no singular "Shotokan school" today, although all of them have been influenced by Funakoshi.

Shotokan is a revered and traditional style of karate do, widely practiced and esteemed for its influence. Gichin Funakoshi, the founder, named the first official dojo "Shotokan" in 1936 at Mejiro. Sadly, the dojo was destroyed in 1945 as a result of an allied bombing.

The name "Shotokan" is derived from Funakoshi's pen-name, "Shoto" (松濤 Shōtō), which means “pine-waves” - representing the movement of pine needles when the wind blows through them. The Japanese term "kan" (館 kan) translates to "house" or "hall." In honor of their sensei, Funakoshi’s students created a sign reading "shōtō-kan" and placed it above the entrance of the hall where Funakoshi taught. Although Funakoshi never formally named his system, he simply referred to it as "karate."

Shotokan Karate 

Kihon

Karate focuses on mastering fundamental moves such as stances, punches, blocks, and kicks. Emphasizing proper body alignment, movement, concentration, and focus, students learn stability, balance, technique, and principles of body control. Basic moves are practiced at every level in every training session.

Kata

Katas are the fundamental movements of karate. They are sequences of movements that mimic attacks and defenses against imaginary enemies. Katas include all the basic techniques and stances needed to achieve rhythm and coordination. Each kata starts with a block to highlight the use of karate for self-defense. There are two main types of katas: those that focus on strengthening muscles and those that prioritize speed and the development of quick reflexes.

Kumite

Kumite is a method used to apply offensive and defensive techniques practiced in the kata under more realistic conditions. It involves two participants who prearrange to take turns as the attacker and defender. Unlike the practice of kata, which involves imaginary opponents, Kumite is practiced with another karateka. It allows for the practical application of the movements found in the kata. During Kumite, students learn proper distancing, timing, body shifting, and focus. Jiyu Kumite, or free sparring, is practiced without prearranged moves and is typically done by higher belts. It is a form of training developed through the practice of step sparring.