Developed in Okinawa, this style of karate was originally from China. The instructor, Kanbun Uechi, opened his first dojo in China before moving back to Okinawa. There are eight different series, or katas, in this style. read more
There is most likely some influence from Chinese martial arts, like kempo, in karate. Since its creation there have been many spin-offs of karate that stem from the interpretation of different instructors. read more
There are a large number of distinct styles and schools of martial arts. Sometimes, schools or styles are introduced by individual teachers or masters, or as a brand name by a specific gym. Martial arts can be grouped by type or focus, or alternatively by regional origin. read more
The four earliest karate styles developed in Japan are Shotokan, Wado-ryu, Shito-ryu, and Goju-ryu. The first three styles find their origins in the Shorin-Ryu style from Shuri, Okinawa, while Goju-ryu finds its origins in Naha. read more