Isshinryu Karate was founded by Grand Master Tatsuo Shimabuku.  He was born on September 19, 1908.  Given the name Shinkichi at birth, it was not until later in his life that he changed his name to Tatsuo or “Dragon Man”. 

   Grand Master Shimabuku

Training on the Makiwara (right) -->

Growing up as one of ten brothers and sisters, Shimabuku was frequently bullied by his siblings.  When his father did not intervene, the young Shimabuku sought out his own form of protection.  His uncle, Shinko Ganiku began his education in the martial arts.

At the age of 23, he married his wife Uto and had four children.  Matsuko, Yukiko (the future wife of Angi Uezu), Kichiro, and Shinsho.

Around the same time, Shimabuku began studying with Choki Motobu, a Master of Shorin-Ryu. 

He then continued his studies with Chotoku Kyan. 

Following this, he studied with Chojun Miyagi of Goju-Ryu.

Shinken Taira, a kobudo Master, was his final instructor. 

During WWII, Shimabuku moved his family to safety when his business in Chun Village was destroyed.  He continued to practice karate in private while farming to take care of his family.  His reputation had preceded him and Japanese soldiers eventually sought him out.  He maintained his safety and his family’s by teaching the soldiers karate. 

After the war, Shimabuku opened a dojo in the village of Konbu. He continued to practice karate and began to develop a system combining the various styles he had mastered through his years of training.

On January 15, 1956, Grand Master Tatsuo Shimabuku announced that he would be publicly teaching his new style.  Isshinryu.  One heart way. 

Shimabuku taught Isshinryu to the United States Marines stationed in Okinawa.  It was through these and other first generation students that Isshinryu found its way to the United States.  Isshinryu in the U.S. has since flourished and grown. 

Master Shimabuku passed away on May 30, 1975 at his home in Agena at the age of 66. 

His son-in-law, Grand Master Angi Uezu, has spent many years travelling the world and teaching Isshinryu.  He has carried on the teachings of Tatsuo Shimabuku devotedly and tirelessly. Although he has since retired from his role in Isshinryu, he continues to educate and guide growing practitioners to this day.