OUR ART - RYUKYU KARATE JUTSU
OUR ART - RYUKYU KARATE JUTSU
Note that there is no requirment to change style or transfer to our art.
What is Ryukyu Karate Jutsu?
Ryukyu Karate Jutsu is a descriptive term used to represent an approach to karate rooted in the older traditions of Okinawan practice, prior to the widespread influence of sport, competition, and modern performance-based interpretations.
Over time, karate has developed in many directions. While these developments have value within their own contexts, they often differ significantly from the original purpose of karate as a method of civilian self-protection. Ryukyu Karate Jutsu is used here to describe study that prioritises function, context, and pragmatic application.
The term does not represent a new style in the modern sense, nor does it replace existing systems. Instead, it reflects an interpretive approach informed by historical research, practical experience, and a continued examination of what karate was originally intended to address.
Ryukyu (琉球) refers to the island chain now known as Okinawa, the birthplace of karate prior to Japanese annexation in 1879.
Jutsu (術) translates as method or art, emphasising application and purpose rather than form alone.
Study within Shuri Dojo and the Shuri Dojo International Kyokai is grounded in the principle that karate was developed for use in real interpersonal violence, rather than sporting exchange. As such, training places emphasis on principles applicable to civilian self-protection.
This includes, where appropriate, throws, joint manipulation, clinch work, strangles, vital point attacks, and close-range methods, alongside striking. These elements reflect material historically associated with Okinawan karate and its Chinese influences, as recorded in sources such as the Bubishi and preserved through the teachings of earlier practitioners.
The approach draws from material historically associated with Shuri-te, Naha-te, Tomari-te, Hakutsuru traditions, and Okinawan kobudo. These influences are viewed as areas of study rather than stylistic boundaries.
The purpose of using the term Ryukyu Karate Jutsu is not to define ownership or authority, but to describe a method of study that seeks to remain aligned with the original aims, principles, and context of Okinawan karate.
It represents an ongoing process of research, reflection, and practical testing, informed by historical sources and real-world experience, and free from sporting rule-sets or performance-driven priorities.
