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History of Wado Ryu
" The only difference between the possible and the impossible is one's will. "
Hironori Ohtsuka
Wado-Ryu Karate was founded by Hironori Ohtsuka (1892-1982). It was recognised as an independent style in May 1934 and was officially registered in 1938. It was a style he had created by combining his own ideas with what he had learnt through his studies of Jiu-jitsu and Shotokan.
Ohtsuka was born on 1st June 1892 in Japan and was first introduced to Martial Arts through Jujitsu. From this point onward, he devoted his life to developing the world of Martial Arts, to which he has had a profound impact.
Ohtsuka’s style of Karate was officially registered in 1938 after he was awarded the rank of "Renshi-go". Following a presentation of his style to the Japan Martial Arts Federation, he was acknowledged as a high-ranking instructor. The next few years witnessed Wado-Ryu Karate going from strength to strength. New dojos were opening and Karate was being taught at universities. Ohtsuka himself was becoming a recognised figure within the world of martial arts.
What does Wado Ryu mean?
WADO RYU = way of peace/harmony
(WA = peace/harmony, DO = way/method, RYU = style)
KARATE = empty hand
In 1944, Ohtsuka was appointed Japan's Chief Karate Instructor. Up until the 1960s, Wado-Ryu Karate remained on the three small islands of Japan. However, in 1963, Arakama, Takashima and Sukuzi left Japan to demonstrate Wado-Ryu Karate to America and Europe. Wado-Ryu Karate soon became recognised world-wide.
Ohtsuka continued to train and instruct Wado-Ryu Karate in Japan. He was awarded the title "Kun Goto Suokuo Kyoku jujitsu Shuo" in 1966, presented by the Emperor for his dedication to the introduction and teaching of karate. This dedication led to the further, historic, award of "Meijin", or The First Excellent Martial Artist in Karate 10th Dan, in 1972. This was the first time that this award has been given in Karate.
Ohtsuka continued to teach and lead the world of Wado-Ryu karate into the 1980s, eventually passing his name and title on to Ohtsuka the Second in 1982. Ohtsuka passed away peacefully on 19th January, 1982. Throughout the world where martial arts are practised, he will continue to be remembered for his enormous contribution and individual devotion to Wado-Ryu Karate.