JAPAN  KARATE-DO
GENBU-KAI
Traditional Karate Dojo

    The Japan Karate-Do Genbu-Kai of Pittsburg, Kansas is a member of the Shihan Demura organization.  The Dojo is led by Sensei James Otter who began his study of Shito-Ryu Karate in 1977 as a member of the Pittsburg State University Karate Club.  He has advanced ranking in Karate, Kobudo (weapons), and Batto (sword).  Amy Murray is an assistant instructor at the Dojo.

    Karate is commonly identified as a Martial Art with origins in Japan or Okinawa.  The style of karate studied at our Dojo is Shito-Ryu Genbu-Kai and is one of the four major styles of Japanese Karate.  Shito-Ryu karate is the result of two older styles of Okinawan Karate. 

    Master Kenwa Mabuni, the founder of Shito-Ryu, studied under two famous Okinawan karate masters, Kanryo Higaonna and Yasutsune Itosu.  Master Higaonna represented the Okinawan style of Naha-te, consisting of very powerful and dynamic moves.  Master Itosu represented the Okinawan style of Shuri-te, consisting of very fast and precise techniques.

    Studying under both masters, Mabuni developed the style of Shito-Ryu.  This style combines speed, precision, power, and dynamic tension.  One of the early students of Mabuni Sensei was Ryusho Sakagami, one of the most recognized and respected Japanese Karate practitioner and instructor.  Sakagami Sensei established the Shito-Ryu Itosu-Kai Organization. 

    One of Sakagami Sensei’s most recognized students was Sensei Fumio Demura.  Demura Sensei is internationally famous for his exciting and eye-catching demonstrations as well as his instruction in Karate and Kobudo.  Demura Sensei founded Shito-Ryu Genbu-Kai and instructed Sensei Otter.