Karate Shito Ryu
History of Shito Ryu Karate
On the island of Okinawa, the art of fighting has evolved through a unique blend of local techniques and Chinese martial arts (kung fu). This cross-fertilization gave rise to various forms of“Tode” (literally “Chinese Hand”), which were renamed“Karate” (Empty Hand) in the early 20th century, under the influence of the Japanese Empire. Among the most influential styles are“Shuri-Te“,“Naha-Te” and“Tomari-Te“.
Master Kenwa Mabuni and the creation of Shito Ryu
Born in Okinawa in 1889, Sensei Kenwa Mabuni brought together the techniques of the three main styles to create Shito Ryu Karate, one of the most respected and complete styles of this martial art. In 1920, Master Mabuni left Okinawa to settle in the Kansai region, in Osaka, where he propagated the teaching of Shito Ryu.
The arrival of Shito Ryu in Belgium
In Belgium, it was Alain Berckmans who, after starting Karate in 1975 and obtaining his 1st Dan in a style related to “Shuri-Te”, discovered Shito Ryu in 1979 under the guidance of Sensei Nakahashi, 9th Dan. Today, Alain Berckmans holds the rank of 6th Dan (Shihan) in this discipline.
For almost 20 years, Alain has travelled regularly to Okinawa to deepen his knowledge with Sensei Nakamoto Masahiro, 10th Dan (Hanshi) and descendant by marriage of Sensei Matsumura Sokun, founder of Shorin Ryu.
The Dojo
Alain has been teaching in the Bunbukan Bruxelles section since 1984.
In addition to promoting rigor and technical mastery, the Bunbukan Brussels dojo is renowned for its commitment to preserving the authenticity of traditional Okinawan teachings, helping its practitioners deepen their understanding of ancestral fighting forms while developing discipline and respect.
Nakahashi Sensei (9th Dan) during a seminar at Budo Club Berchem
Soke Kenei Mabuni with Alain (Osaka 1990)