Karate Gear
The History of Karate
Karate originated in the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom, influenced by Chinese kenpō, and was introduced to Japan by Ryukyuan migrants in the early 20th century. Systematically taught at universities and military bases, especially in Okinawa, it grew in prominence after World War II. Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate-Do, is recognized as the father of modern Karate. In 1957, Masutatsu Oyama founded Kyokushin Karate, now known as "full-contact" or "knockdown" Karate.
Today, Karate boasts a global following. Web Japan estimates 50 million practitioners worldwide, while the World Karate Federation suggests the number could reach 100 million. Will you join them?