{"id":30,"date":"2026-01-23T17:50:43","date_gmt":"2026-01-23T17:50:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/?page_id=30"},"modified":"2026-02-18T14:39:38","modified_gmt":"2026-02-18T12:39:38","slug":"ryukyu-kobudo","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/index.php\/ryukyu-kobudo\/","title":{"rendered":"Ryukyu Kobudo"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1 hundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: #000000;background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;border-width: 0 0 0 0;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-0 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-one-full fusion-column-first fusion-column-last fusion-animated\" style=\"margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:20px;\" data-animationType=\"fadeIn\" data-animationDuration=\"1.4\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-column-wrapper-legacy\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><style type=\"text\/css\"><\/style><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-1 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-center fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-one\" style=\"font-size:110px;margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;\"><h1 class=\"title-heading-center\" style=\"font-family:&quot;Kaushan Script&quot;;margin:0;font-size:1em;\"><h1 class=\"aio-icon-title ult-responsive\" data-ultimate-target=\"#Info-box-wrap-9145 .aio-icon-title\" data-responsive-json-new=\"{\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Ryukyu Kobudo Shimbukan<\/span><\/h1><\/h1><\/div><div class=\"fusion-content-boxes content-boxes columns row fusion-columns-1 fusion-columns-total-1 fusion-content-boxes-1 content-boxes-icon-on-top content-left\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\" style=\"margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-content-boxes-1 .heading .content-box-heading {color:#212934;}\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover .heading .content-box-heading,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover .heading .heading-link .content-box-heading,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover .heading .content-box-heading,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover .heading .heading-link .content-box-heading,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover.link-area-box .fusion-read-more,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover.link-area-box .fusion-read-more::after,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover.link-area-box .fusion-read-more::before,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .fusion-read-more:hover:after,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .fusion-read-more:hover:before,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .fusion-read-more:hover,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover.link-area-box .fusion-read-more,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover.link-area-box .fusion-read-more::after,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover.link-area-box .fusion-read-more::before,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover .icon .circle-no,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .heading .heading-link:hover .content-box-heading {\n\t\t\t\t\t\tcolor: #65bc7b;\n\t\t\t\t\t}\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover .icon .circle-no {\n\t\t\t\t\t\tcolor: #65bc7b !important;\n\t\t\t\t\t}.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box.link-area-box-hover .fusion-content-box-button {background: #5aa86c;color: #ffffff;}.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box.link-area-box-hover .fusion-content-box-button .fusion-button-text {color: #ffffff;}\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover .heading .icon > span {\n\t\t\t\t\t\tbackground-color: #65bc7b !important;\n\t\t\t\t\t}\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover .heading .icon > span {\n\t\t\t\t\t\tborder-color: #65bc7b !important;\n\t\t\t\t\t}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-column content-box-column content-box-column content-box-column-1 col-lg-12 col-md-12 col-sm-12 fusion-content-box-hover content-box-column-last content-box-column-last-in-row\"><div class=\"col content-box-wrapper content-wrapper link-area-link-icon content-icon-wrapper-yes icon-hover-animation-fade fusion-animated\" style=\"background-color:transparent;\" data-animationType=\"fadeIn\" data-animationDuration=\"3.7\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"heading heading-with-icon icon-left\"><div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"image\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Kobudo.png\" width=\"146\" height=\"169\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"content-container\" style=\"color:#4a4e57;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Ryukyu Kobudo Shimbukan is <\/span><mark class=\"HxTRcb\" data-processed=\"true\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">a traditional Okinawan weapon system dedicated to preserving the techniques of masters like Taira Shinken, focusing on weapons such as the Bo, Sai, Tonfa, and Nunchaku<\/span><\/mark><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">. Founded in 1971 by Eisuke Akamine and currently led by Hiroshi Akamine (Hanshi) in Okinawa, the organization emphasizes strict adherence to traditional forms (kata), basics, and weapon techniques.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .heading-link:hover .icon i.circle-yes,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box:hover .heading-link .icon i.circle-yes,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover .heading .icon i.circle-yes,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-1 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover .heading .icon i.circle-yes {\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tbackground-color: #65bc7b !important;\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tborder-color: #65bc7b !important;\n\t\t\t\t\t\t}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"goju-hist\"><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-2 fusion-flex-container hundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: #ffffff;background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:104% !important;max-width:104% !important;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-1 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-section-separator section-separator slant fusion-section-separator-1\"><div class=\"fusion-section-separator-svg\" style=\"padding:0;\"><svg class=\"fusion-slant-candy\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" version=\"1.1\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100\" viewBox=\"0 0 100 100\" preserveAspectRatio=\"none\" style=\"fill:#000000;padding:0;\"><path d=\"M100 0 L100 100 L0 0 Z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><div class=\"fusion-section-separator-spacer\"><div class=\"fusion-section-separator-spacer-height\" style=\"height:99px;\"><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-section-separator-1 .fusion-section-separator-svg {margin-left:1.92%;margin-right:1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-section-separator-1 .fusion-section-separator-svg {margin-left:1.92%;margin-right:1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-section-separator-1 .fusion-section-separator-svg {margin-left:1.92%;margin-right:1.92%;}}<\/style><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-title.fusion-title-2{margin-top:10px!important; margin-right:0px!important;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:0px!important;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-title.fusion-title-2{margin-top:10px!important; margin-right:0px!important;margin-bottom:10px!important; margin-left:0px!important;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-2 fusion-title-center fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-one fusion-animated\" style=\"font-size:110px;margin-top:10px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:15px;margin-left:0px;\" data-animationType=\"slideInLeft\" data-animationDuration=\"3.1\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"title-sep-container title-sep-container-left\"><div class=\"title-sep sep-single sep-solid\" style=\"border-color:#000000;\"><\/div><\/div><h1 class=\"title-heading-center\" style=\"font-family:&quot;Kaushan Script&quot;;margin:0;font-size:1em;\">History<\/h1><div class=\"title-sep-container title-sep-container-right\"><div class=\"title-sep sep-single sep-solid\" style=\"border-color:#000000;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-tabs fusion-tabs-1 clean vertical-tabs icon-position-left\"><style type=\"text\/css\">#wrapper .fusion-tabs.fusion-tabs-1.clean .nav-tabs li a.tab-link{border-color:#e2e2e2;}.fusion-tabs.fusion-tabs-1 .nav-tabs li a.tab-link{background-color:#f1f2f2;}.fusion-tabs.fusion-tabs-1 .nav-tabs li.active a.tab-link,.fusion-tabs.fusion-tabs-1 .nav-tabs li.active a.tab-link:hover,.fusion-tabs.fusion-tabs-1 .nav-tabs li.active a.tab-link:focus{background-color:#ffffff;}.fusion-tabs.fusion-tabs-1 .nav-tabs li a:hover{background-color:#ffffff;border-top-color:#ffffff;}.fusion-tabs.fusion-tabs-1 .tab-pane{background-color:#ffffff;}.fusion-tabs.fusion-tabs-1 .nav,.fusion-tabs.fusion-tabs-1 .nav-tabs,.fusion-tabs.fusion-tabs-1 .tab-content .tab-pane{border-color:#e2e2e2;}<\/style><div class=\"nav\"><ul class=\"nav-tabs\" role=\"tablist\"><li class=\"active\"><a class=\"tab-link\" data-toggle=\"tab\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"tab-7235ba4847eb8d96ed7\" aria-selected=\"true\" id=\"fusion-tab-praisingmonument\" href=\"#tab-7235ba4847eb8d96ed7\"><h4 class=\"fusion-tab-heading\">Praising Monument<\/h4><\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"tab-link\" data-toggle=\"tab\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"tab-128eacfffc93ef84322\" aria-selected=\"false\" tabindex=\"-1\" id=\"fusion-tab-tairashinken\" href=\"#tab-128eacfffc93ef84322\"><h4 class=\"fusion-tab-heading\">Taira Shinken<\/h4><\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"tab-link\" data-toggle=\"tab\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"tab-f4abffc4d987fa210c2\" aria-selected=\"false\" tabindex=\"-1\" id=\"fusion-tab-eisukeakamine\" href=\"#tab-f4abffc4d987fa210c2\"><h4 class=\"fusion-tab-heading\">Eisuke Akamine<\/h4><\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"tab-link\" data-toggle=\"tab\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"tab-2115ba63a9a2fe0430c\" aria-selected=\"false\" tabindex=\"-1\" id=\"fusion-tab-hiroshiakamine\" href=\"#tab-2115ba63a9a2fe0430c\"><h4 class=\"fusion-tab-heading\">Hiroshi Akamine<\/h4><\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"tab-content\"><div class=\"nav fusion-mobile-tab-nav\"><ul class=\"nav-tabs\"><li class=\"active\"><a class=\"tab-link\" data-toggle=\"tab\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"tab-7235ba4847eb8d96ed7\" aria-selected=\"true\" id=\"mobile-fusion-tab-praisingmonument\" href=\"#tab-7235ba4847eb8d96ed7\"><h4 class=\"fusion-tab-heading\">Praising Monument<\/h4><\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"tab-pane fade fusion-clearfix in active\" role=\"tabpanel\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-labelledby=\"fusion-tab-praisingmonument\" id=\"tab-7235ba4847eb8d96ed7\">The praising monument and tomb in Maja, Kume Island, Okinawa <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload size-medium wp-image-227 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image_800x-300x210.jpg\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image_800x-300x210.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"210\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%27http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%27%20width%3D%27300%27%20height%3D%27210%27%20viewBox%3D%270%200%20300%20210%27%3E%3Crect%20width%3D%27300%27%20height%3D%27210%27%20fill-opacity%3D%220%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image_800x-200x140.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image_800x-300x210.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image_800x-400x280.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image_800x-600x420.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image_800x-768x538.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image_800x.jpg 800w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" data-orig-sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/>of Taira Shinken sensei (former family name Maesato | Maezato) who was born in Kume Island, and became the forefather of Ry\u016bky\u016b Kobud\u014d.<\/div><div class=\"nav fusion-mobile-tab-nav\"><ul class=\"nav-tabs\"><li><a class=\"tab-link\" data-toggle=\"tab\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"tab-128eacfffc93ef84322\" aria-selected=\"false\" tabindex=\"-1\" id=\"mobile-fusion-tab-tairashinken\" href=\"#tab-128eacfffc93ef84322\"><h4 class=\"fusion-tab-heading\">Taira Shinken<\/h4><\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"tab-pane fade fusion-clearfix\" role=\"tabpanel\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-labelledby=\"fusion-tab-tairashinken\" id=\"tab-128eacfffc93ef84322\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload size-full wp-image-228 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/shiken-timbe.jpg\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/shiken-timbe.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"204\" height=\"246\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%27http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%27%20width%3D%27204%27%20height%3D%27246%27%20viewBox%3D%270%200%20204%20246%27%3E%3Crect%20width%3D%27204%27%20height%3D%27246%27%20fill-opacity%3D%220%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/shiken-timbe-200x241.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/shiken-timbe.jpg 204w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" data-orig-sizes=\"(max-width: 204px) 100vw, 204px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"\">He was born as <strong>Shinken Maezato<\/strong> (\u524d\u91cc \u4fe1\u8ce2, <strong>Maezato Shinken<\/strong>) in 1897 on Kume island in the Ry\u016bky\u016b archipelago. He was the second son in a family of three boys and one girl. He was given up for adoption as a child (not an uncommon practice in old Japan). In his early life he took on his mother&#8217;s maiden name of <strong>Taira<\/strong>. Taira worked in the sulphur mines in Minamijima. He suffered a badly broken leg when he was trapped in a mine shaft collapse, which caused permanent damage to his leg.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">In 1922, after traveling to Tokyo to find work, he was introduced to Gichin Funakoshi Sensei.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">Many claim, <strong>Taira<\/strong> Sensei became Funakoshi Sensei\u2019s Kobujutsu teacher, this is unlikely as Taira Sensei didn\u2019t start Ry\u016bky\u016b kobujutsu formally under Moden Yabiku Sensei until 1929. Funakoshi Sensei was already well versed in the Bo and the Sai and may have encouraged Taira Sensei in his studies.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">In 1932 after studying kobujutsu for three years and karate for 10 years, he received permission from his masters to open his own dojo. Taira began to teach karate and kobujutsu in the hot spring resort town of Ikaho, Gunma Prefecture. In 1934, Taira became a student (deshi) of <strong>Kenwa Mabuni<\/strong> Sensei.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">The kobujutsu of the <strong>Ryobukai <\/strong>is directly attributed to this lineage. <strong>Konishi Soke<\/strong> studied with <strong>Taira<\/strong> Sensei and taught students on his behalf. He encouraged and taught both <strong>Ryusho Sakagami <\/strong>Sensei <strong>and<\/strong> <strong>Inoue Motokatsu<\/strong> Sensei. Both would become senior figures in the evolution of kobujutsu on mainland Japan. In fact, <strong>Inoue Motokatsu<\/strong> Sensei would inherit Taira Sensei\u2019s direct lineage and become the head of the <strong>Ry\u016bky\u016b Kobudo Hozon Shinkokai<\/strong> in mainland Japan while in Okinawa this role would be headed by <strong>Eisuke Akamine<\/strong> Sensei.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\"><strong>Ryusho Sakagami <\/strong>Sensei would produce one of kobujutsu most famous students the popular and talented <strong>Fumio Demura<\/strong> Sensei.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\"><strong>Taira<\/strong> Sensei created the nunchaku kata taught in Ryukyu kobudo <strong>Taira no Nunchaku <\/strong>which is still taught by the<strong> JKRUK.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"\"><strong>Taira <\/strong>Sensei is credited with composing <strong>Maezato no Tekko<\/strong>, a kata using metal horse stirrups. The name Maezato relates to his birth name. He continued his studies in kobudo cataloguing over forty traditional weapons kata from around Okinawa.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">By 1940 <strong>Taira <\/strong>Sensei opened a kobudo dojo in Naha, Okinawa. He also opened dojo in Kant\u014d and Kansai, two major districts of central Japan. In the post-war era, even in Okinawa, the number of kobudo students was much lower than the number of karate students. To revitalize Okinawan kobudo study, in 1955 he established the Ry\u016bky\u016b Kobudo Hozon Shinkokai as a continuation of <strong>Moden Yabiku&#8217;s Ryukyu Kobujutsu Society.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"\">Taira Sensei was in 1960 Shihan for the <strong>Nihon Kobudo Kenkyujo<\/strong> and in 1963 vice-President of the <strong>International Karate Kobudo Federation<\/strong>. On July 1, 1964, he was promoted to Hanshi by the <strong>Japan Kobudo Federation<\/strong>. He was the first president of the <strong>Ryukyu Kobudo Preservation and Promotion Society(July 1970)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"nav fusion-mobile-tab-nav\"><ul class=\"nav-tabs\"><li><a class=\"tab-link\" data-toggle=\"tab\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"tab-f4abffc4d987fa210c2\" aria-selected=\"false\" tabindex=\"-1\" id=\"mobile-fusion-tab-eisukeakamine\" href=\"#tab-f4abffc4d987fa210c2\"><h4 class=\"fusion-tab-heading\">Eisuke Akamine<\/h4><\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"tab-pane fade fusion-clearfix\" role=\"tabpanel\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-labelledby=\"fusion-tab-eisukeakamine\" id=\"tab-f4abffc4d987fa210c2\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload size-full wp-image-229 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Eisuke-Akamine.jpg\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Eisuke-Akamine.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"203\" height=\"248\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%27http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%27%20width%3D%27203%27%20height%3D%27248%27%20viewBox%3D%270%200%20203%20248%27%3E%3Crect%20width%3D%27203%27%20height%3D%27248%27%20fill-opacity%3D%220%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Eisuke-Akamine-200x244.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Eisuke-Akamine.jpg 203w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" data-orig-sizes=\"(max-width: 203px) 100vw, 203px\" \/><\/p>\n<table align=\"center\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"500\">Akamine Eisuke was born May 1, 1925 in the last years of the Taisho Era. Until his death on January 13, 1999, he lived in the Nesabu section of Tomigusuku, the small village in southern Okinawa where he was born.<\/p>\n<p>In 1942, at the age of seventeen, he began the study of Yamani-Ryu bojutsu (staff art) under Higa Seichiro, Higa Raisuke, Higa Jisanburo and Akamine Yohei (no relation). From his early teachers, Akamine Sensei learned these kata; Soeshi no Kon, Sakugawa no Kon, Shirataru no Kon and Yuniga no Kon.<\/p>\n<p>In 1944, Akamine Sensei married his wife, Shizuko. Shortly thereafter, at age nineteen, he was drafted into the Japanese Army where he served one year in Taiwan. When he returned to Okinawa, Akamine Sensei resumed vegetable and sugar cane farming and his study of Yamani-Ryu bojutsu.<\/td>\n<td width=\"500\">\n<div class=\"style1\" align=\"center\"><img class=\"lazyload\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.karatekobudo.com\/images\/profiles\/Grand%20Masters%20-%20Kobudo\/AkamineEisuke1.jpg\" \/><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"500\">\n<div class=\"style1\" align=\"center\"><img class=\"lazyload\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.karatekobudo.com\/images\/profiles\/Grand%20Masters%20-%20Kobudo\/AkamineEisuke2.jpg\" \/><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td width=\"500\">In 1959, Taira Shinken was teaching Kobudo in a Goju-ryu Karate dojo in Naha, Okinawa. While there, he heard of great bojutsu teachers who lived in the Kakazu section of Tomigusuku village. To satisfy his curiosity, he went to Tomigusuku to study Yamani-ryu bojutsu with Akamine Sensei&#8217;s teachers. This was the first meeting between Taira Shinken and Akamine Sensei.<\/p>\n<p>One day, Taira was asked to demonstrate Tekko (metal knuckles), Nunchaku (horse bridle) and Sai (truncheon). Akamine Sensei had never seen these weapons before. He was so impressed with Taira&#8217;s waza that he decided to become his deshi (student).<\/p>\n<p>As Taira&#8217;s senior student, Akamine Sensei would be in the unique position of watching him organize the various waza into a system that would eventually become Ryukyu Kobudo Hozon Shinkokai.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"500\">In addition to building a structured curriculum, Taira was adding a training element that would permeate all Ryukyu Kobudo waza and kata and as a result, become part of the signature of this weapons system. Higa Yuchoku was a student of Chibana Chosin and a noted teacher of &#8220;Te&#8221;, the origin of Karate. Higa and Taira Shinken were close friends.<\/p>\n<p>As he continued his relentless study, Taira recognized that Kobudo, while effective, lacked the explosive power found in Te. Specifically, it lacked gamanku (hip technique). Taira&#8217;s ability to effectively demonstrate gamanku was limited by his rigid, muscular physique and a permanent ankle injury. However, he insisted on it from his students. So, he asked Higa Yuchoku to help infuse his system of Kobudo with gamanku. After Taira&#8217;s death, Akamine Sensei continued to seek Higa&#8217;s counsel on the use of gamanku.<\/td>\n<td width=\"500\">\n<div class=\"style1\" align=\"center\"><img class=\"lazyload\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.karatekobudo.com\/images\/profiles\/Grand%20Masters%20-%20Kobudo\/AkamineEisuke3.jpg\" \/><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"500\">\n<div class=\"style1\" align=\"center\"><img class=\"lazyload\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.karatekobudo.com\/images\/profiles\/Grand%20Masters%20-%20Kobudo\/AkamineEisuke4.jpg\" \/><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td width=\"500\">In 1959, Taira Shinken was teaching Kobudo in a Goju-ryu Karate dojo in Naha, Okinawa. While there, he heard of great bojutsu teachers who lived in the Kakazu section of Tomigusuku village. To satisfy his curiosity, he went to Tomigusuku to study Yamani-ryu bojutsu with Akamine Sensei&#8217;s teachers. This was the first meeting between Taira Shinken and Akamine Sensei.<\/p>\n<p>One day, Taira was asked to demonstrate Tekko (metal knuckles), Nunchaku (horse bridle) and Sai (truncheon). Akamine Sensei had never seen these weapons before. He was so impressed with Taira&#8217;s waza that he decided to become his deshi (student).<\/p>\n<p>As Taira&#8217;s senior student, Akamine Sensei would be in the unique position of watching him organize the various waza into a system that would eventually become Ryukyu Kobudo Hozon Shinkokai.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"500\">Akamine Sensei taught waza and kata for all of the nine weapons of Ryukyu Kobudo Hozon Shinkokai:<\/p>\n<p>\u2022 Bo (Staff)<br \/>\n\u2022 Sai (Iron Truncheon)<br \/>\n\u2022 Nunchaku (Horse Bridle)<br \/>\n\u2022 Kama (Sickle)<br \/>\n\u2022 Tekko (Metal Knuckles)<br \/>\n\u2022 Tsuifa (Millstone Handle)<br \/>\n\u2022 Eiku (Oar)<br \/>\n\u2022 Suruchin (Weighted Rope)<br \/>\n\u2022 Tinbe (Shield and Short Spear)<\/td>\n<td width=\"500\">\n<div class=\"style1\" align=\"center\"><img class=\"lazyload\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.karatekobudo.com\/images\/profiles\/Grand%20Masters%20-%20Kobudo\/AkamineEisuke5.jpg\" \/><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"500\">\n<div class=\"style1\" align=\"center\"><img class=\"lazyload\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.karatekobudo.com\/images\/profiles\/Grand%20Masters%20-%20Kobudo\/AkamineEisuke.jpg\" \/><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td width=\"500\">In addition, Akamine Sensei continued Taira&#8217;s tradition of research and with the help of his students, brought several kata back from extinction.<\/p>\n<p>By all accounts, Akamine Sensei was a quiet and stern teacher whose primary focus was the development of waza. Within the Okinawan martial arts community, he was known as a teacher&#8217;s teacher &#8230; someone that teachers came to for a deeper understanding of their own techniques.<\/p>\n<p>With a small dojo and a focus on quality rather than quantity, Akamine Sensei intentionally kept his student roster small. He only had fourteen first generation students.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"2\" align=\"center\">Akamine Sensei once said, &#8220;<strong><em>If I teach you kata, you will forget it tomorrow. But, if I teach you waza, you will have it for a lifetime.<\/em><\/strong>&#8220;<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div><div class=\"nav fusion-mobile-tab-nav\"><ul class=\"nav-tabs\"><li><a class=\"tab-link\" data-toggle=\"tab\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"tab-2115ba63a9a2fe0430c\" aria-selected=\"false\" tabindex=\"-1\" id=\"mobile-fusion-tab-hiroshiakamine\" href=\"#tab-2115ba63a9a2fe0430c\"><h4 class=\"fusion-tab-heading\">Hiroshi Akamine<\/h4><\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"tab-pane fade fusion-clearfix\" role=\"tabpanel\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-labelledby=\"fusion-tab-hiroshiakamine\" id=\"tab-2115ba63a9a2fe0430c\">\n<div align=\"CENTER\">\n<table border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"1\" cellpadding=\"1\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td align=\"center\"><img class=\"lazyload\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.karatekobudo.com\/images\/profiles\/Grand%20Masters%20-%20Kobudo\/HiroshiAkamine4.jpg\" \/><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<table align=\"center\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"500\">Hiroshi Akamine was born into a martial arts family. Born in 1954 in Aza Kakakzu in the village of Tomigusuku, as the fourth son of Eisuke Akamine, he was destined to study the martial arts from his father, grandfather, and family associates. His father, Eisuke Akamine, was the 2nd President for the Ryukyu Kobudo Hozon Shinkokai; while his grandfather, Higa Raisuke, was a bo expert under the Yamane Ryu bo system.<\/td>\n<td width=\"440\">\n<div class=\"style1\" align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload \" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%27http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%27%20width%3D%27207%27%20height%3D%27259%27%20viewBox%3D%270%200%20207%20259%27%3E%3Crect%20width%3D%27207%27%20height%3D%27259%27%20fill-opacity%3D%220%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.karatekobudo.com\/images\/profiles\/Grand%20Masters%20-%20Kobudo\/HiroshiAkamine3.jpg\" width=\"207\" height=\"259\" \/><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"440\">\n<div class=\"style1\" align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload \" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%27http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%27%20width%3D%27207%27%20height%3D%27256%27%20viewBox%3D%270%200%20207%20256%27%3E%3Crect%20width%3D%27207%27%20height%3D%27256%27%20fill-opacity%3D%220%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.karatekobudo.com\/images\/profiles\/Grand%20Masters%20-%20Kobudo\/HiroshiAkamine2.jpg\" width=\"207\" height=\"256\" \/><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td width=\"500\">In 1960 Hiroshi Akamine began his karate training at the tender age of 6 under his father. In 1968, Akamine studied the art of tinbe \/rochin (shield and short spear) under the weapons master, Shinken Taira; the 1st President for the Ryukyu Kobudo Hozon Shinkokai. Akamine began his training in the art of weapons from Taira at the age of seven when Taira would periodically visit his father\u2019s dojo. In 1970, after Taira\u2019s passing, Akamine\u2019s father continued his Kobudo training. At around this time, the young Akamine began his karate training under the famous Shorin Ryu karatedo expert, Shijin Gushiken.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"500\">In 1988, Akamine received his 5th dan in Shorin Ryu Karatedo by Gushiken and received his teacher\u2019s license in 1994. In 1997, Akamine received his 7th dan in karatedo by his father and he was also presented with the teacher\u2019s license in Kobudo.<\/td>\n<td width=\"440\">\n<div class=\"style1\" align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload \" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%27http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%27%20width%3D%27207%27%20height%3D%27263%27%20viewBox%3D%270%200%20207%20263%27%3E%3Crect%20width%3D%27207%27%20height%3D%27263%27%20fill-opacity%3D%220%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.karatekobudo.com\/images\/profiles\/Grand%20Masters%20-%20Kobudo\/HiroshiAkamine6.jpg\" width=\"207\" height=\"263\" \/><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"440\">\n<div class=\"style1\" align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload \" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%27http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%27%20width%3D%27207%27%20height%3D%27156%27%20viewBox%3D%270%200%20207%20156%27%3E%3Crect%20width%3D%27207%27%20height%3D%27156%27%20fill-opacity%3D%220%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.karatekobudo.com\/images\/profiles\/Grand%20Masters%20-%20Kobudo\/HiroshiAkamine7.jpg\" width=\"207\" height=\"156\" \/><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td width=\"500\">In April 1999, Akamine\u2019s father passed away and he became the 3rd President for the Ryukyu Kobudo Hozon Shinkokai. In July 2011, with new determination, he established the Ryukyu Kobudo Shimbukan based on the Shimbukan Dojo established by his father. At the same time, he assumed the position of President of Okinawa Shorinryu Mukenkai Association, which was established by Shijin Gushiken. Hiroshi Akamine currently is an 9th dan in both Karatedo and Kobudo.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-section-separator section-separator hills-opacity fusion-section-separator-2\"><div class=\"fusion-section-separator-svg\" style=\"font-size:0;line-height:0;\"><svg class=\"fusion-hills-opacity-candy\" fill=\"#000000\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" version=\"1.1\" width=\"100%\" viewBox=\"0 -0.5 1024 182\" preserveAspectRatio=\"none\" class=\"section-separator-shortcode-divider-svg\"><path class=\"st0\" d=\"M0 182.086h1024V41.593c-28.058-21.504-60.109-37.581-97.075-37.581-112.845 0-198.144 93.798-289.792 93.798S437.658 6.777 351.846 6.777s-142.234 82.125-238.49 82.125c-63.078 0-75.776-31.744-113.357-53.658L0 182.086z\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<path class=\"st1\" d=\"M1024 181.062v-75.878c-39.731 15.872-80.794 27.341-117.658 25.805-110.387-4.506-191.795-109.773-325.53-116.224-109.158-5.12-344.166 120.115-429.466 166.298H1024v-.001z\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<path class=\"st2\" d=\"M0 182.086h1024V90.028C966.451 59.103 907.059 16.3 824.115 15.071 690.278 13.023 665.19 102.93 482.099 102.93S202.138-1.62 74.24.019C46.49.326 21.811 4.217 0 9.849v172.237z\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<path class=\"st3\" d=\"M0 182.086h1024V80.505c-37.171 19.558-80.691 35.328-139.571 36.25-151.142 2.355-141.619-28.57-298.496-29.184s-138.854 47.002-305.459 43.725C132.813 128.428 91.238 44.563 0 28.179v153.907z\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<path class=\"st4\" d=\"M0 182.086h1024v-77.312c-49.05 20.07-120.525 42.394-193.229 42.086-128.922-.512-159.846-72.294-255.795-72.294-89.088 0-134.656 80.179-245.043 82.022S169.063 99.346 49.971 97.401C32.768 97.094 16.077 99.244 0 103.135v78.951z\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg><\/div><div class=\"fusion-section-separator-spacer\"><div class=\"fusion-section-separator-spacer-height\" style=\"padding-top:17.7734375%;\"><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-section-separator-2 .fusion-section-separator-svg {margin-left:1.92%;margin-right:1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-section-separator-2 .fusion-section-separator-svg {margin-left:1.92%;margin-right:1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-section-separator-2 .fusion-section-separator-svg {margin-left:1.92%;margin-right:1.92%;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-1{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-1{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-1{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-2{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-3 fusion-flex-container hundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: #ffffff;background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:104% !important;max-width:104% !important;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-2 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><style type='text\/css'>.reading-box-container-1 .element-bottomshadow:before,.reading-box-container-1 .element-bottomshadow:after{opacity:1.00;}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-reading-box-container reading-box-container-1 fusion-animated\" data-animationType=\"bounceIn\" data-animationDuration=\"2.4\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\" style=\"margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:20px;\"><div class=\"reading-box reading-box-center element-bottomshadow\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6;border-width:0px;border-color:#f6f6f6;border-left-width:3px;border-left-color:var(--primary_color);border-style:solid;\"><h2>\"If I teach you kata, you will forget it tomorrow. But, if I teach you waza, you will have it for a lifetime.\" <br>~ Eisuke Akamine ~<\/br><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-2{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-2{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-2{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-3{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div><div id=\"gojuryu-kata\"><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-4 fusion-flex-container hundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: #ffffff;background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:104% !important;max-width:104% !important;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-3 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-title.fusion-title-3{margin-top:10px!important; margin-right:0px!important;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:0px!important;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-title.fusion-title-3{margin-top:10px!important; margin-right:0px!important;margin-bottom:10px!important; margin-left:0px!important;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-3 fusion-title-center fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-one fusion-animated\" style=\"font-size:110px;text-shadow:10px 10px 18px ;;margin-top:10px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:15px;margin-left:0px;\" data-animationType=\"slideInLeft\" data-animationDuration=\"3.1\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"title-sep-container title-sep-container-left\"><div class=\"title-sep sep-single sep-solid\" style=\"border-color:#000000;\"><\/div><\/div><h1 class=\"title-heading-center\" style=\"font-family:&quot;Kaushan Script&quot;;margin:0;font-size:1em;\">Weapons<\/h1><div class=\"title-sep-container title-sep-container-right\"><div class=\"title-sep sep-single sep-solid\" style=\"border-color:#000000;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-content-boxes content-boxes columns row fusion-columns-4 fusion-columns-total-8 fusion-content-boxes-2 content-boxes-clean-vertical content-left content-boxes-icon-on-top\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\" style=\"margin-top:;margin-bottom:;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-content-boxes-2 .heading .content-box-heading {color:#212934;}\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover .heading .content-box-heading,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover .heading .heading-link .content-box-heading,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover .heading .content-box-heading,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover .heading .heading-link .content-box-heading,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover.link-area-box .fusion-read-more,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover.link-area-box .fusion-read-more::after,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover.link-area-box .fusion-read-more::before,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .fusion-read-more:hover:after,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .fusion-read-more:hover:before,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .fusion-read-more:hover,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover.link-area-box .fusion-read-more,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover.link-area-box .fusion-read-more::after,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover.link-area-box .fusion-read-more::before,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover .icon .circle-no,\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .heading .heading-link:hover .content-box-heading {\n\t\t\t\t\t\tcolor: #65bc7b;\n\t\t\t\t\t}\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover .icon .circle-no {\n\t\t\t\t\t\tcolor: #65bc7b !important;\n\t\t\t\t\t}.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box.link-area-box-hover .fusion-content-box-button {background: #5aa86c;color: #ffffff;}.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box.link-area-box-hover .fusion-content-box-button .fusion-button-text {color: #ffffff;}\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover .heading .icon > span {\n\t\t\t\t\t\tbackground-color: #65bc7b !important;\n\t\t\t\t\t}\n\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover .heading .icon > span {\n\t\t\t\t\t\tborder-color: #65bc7b !important;\n\t\t\t\t\t}<\/style><div style=\"border-color:rgba(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"fusion-column content-box-column content-box-column content-box-column-1 col-lg-3 col-md-3 col-sm-3 fusion-content-box-hover content-box-column-first-in-row\"><div class=\"col content-box-wrapper content-wrapper link-area-link-icon content-icon-wrapper-yes icon-hover-animation-fade\" style=\"background-color:transparent;\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"heading heading-with-icon icon-left\"><div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"image\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/bo.jpg\" width=\"225\" height=\"225\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div><h2 class=\"content-box-heading\" style=\"font-size:24px;line-height:29px;\">B\u014d (\u68d2)<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"content-container\" style=\"color:#4a4e57;\">The b\u014d is the foundation of Ry\u016bky\u016b Kobud\u014d, unadorned and uncompromising. Traditionally measuring <strong data-start=\"303\" data-end=\"317\">roku shaku<\/strong> (approximately 182 cm), its length reflects the reach of the practitioner with arms extended. Drawn from the common carrying pole, it became a weapon during an age of restriction, where structure and discipline replaced excess. Through thrusting with the <strong data-start=\"573\" data-end=\"583\">kontei<\/strong>, striking with the <strong data-start=\"603\" data-end=\"612\">ch\u016bbu<\/strong>, sweeping, and guarding, the b\u014d teaches distance, alignment, and the body moving as one.<\/div><\/div><\/div><div style=\"border-color:rgba(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"fusion-column content-box-column content-box-column content-box-column-2 col-lg-3 col-md-3 col-sm-3 fusion-content-box-hover \"><div class=\"col content-box-wrapper content-wrapper link-area-link-icon content-icon-wrapper-yes icon-hover-animation-fade\" style=\"background-color:transparent;\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"heading heading-with-icon icon-left\"><div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"image\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sai.jpg\" width=\"225\" height=\"225\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div><h2 class=\"content-box-heading\" style=\"font-size:24px;line-height:29px;\">Sai (\u91f5)<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"content-container\" style=\"color:#4a4e57;\">\n<p>The sai is an iron weapon shaped by restraint rather than excess. Comprised of a central shaft (<strong data-start=\"822\" data-end=\"834\">monouchi<\/strong>), two side prongs (<strong data-start=\"854\" data-end=\"862\">yoku<\/strong>), a handle (<strong data-start=\"875\" data-end=\"884\">tsuka<\/strong>), and pommel (<strong data-start=\"899\" data-end=\"915\">tsukagashira<\/strong>), its design favors control over cutting. Influenced by Chinese truncheon weapons and carried by officers of the Ry\u016bky\u016b Kingdom, the sai is used to block, trap, disarm, and strike. Its practice refines wrist strength, precision, and calm authority at close range.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div style=\"border-color:rgba(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"fusion-column content-box-column content-box-column content-box-column-3 col-lg-3 col-md-3 col-sm-3 fusion-content-box-hover \"><div class=\"col content-box-wrapper content-wrapper link-area-link-icon content-icon-wrapper-yes icon-hover-animation-fade\" style=\"background-color:transparent;\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"heading heading-with-icon icon-left\"><div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"image\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/nuchuka.jpg\" width=\"225\" height=\"225\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div><h2 class=\"content-box-heading\" style=\"font-size:24px;line-height:29px;\">Nunchaku (\u30cc\u30f3\u30c1\u30e3\u30af)<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"content-container\" style=\"color:#4a4e57;\">The nunchaku is composed of two wooden sections (<strong data-start=\"2994\" data-end=\"3001\">kon<\/strong>) connected by rope (<strong data-start=\"3022\" data-end=\"3030\">himo<\/strong>) or chain (<strong data-start=\"3042\" data-end=\"3052\">kusari<\/strong>). Emerging from tools of labor and restraint, it evolved into a weapon requiring constant awareness. Its flexible nature allows for rapid strikes, trapping, and choking techniques, while demanding precise timing and control. Momentum, once created, must be guided rather than forced.<\/div><\/div><\/div><div style=\"border-color:rgba(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"fusion-column content-box-column content-box-column content-box-column-4 col-lg-3 col-md-3 col-sm-3 fusion-content-box-hover content-box-column-last-in-row\"><div class=\"col content-box-wrapper content-wrapper link-area-link-icon content-icon-wrapper-yes icon-hover-animation-fade\" style=\"background-color:transparent;\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"heading heading-with-icon icon-left\"><div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"image\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/tekko.jpg\" width=\"225\" height=\"225\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div><h2 class=\"content-box-heading\" style=\"font-size:24px;line-height:29px;\">Tekko (\u9244\u7532)<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"content-container\" style=\"color:#4a4e57;\">Tekko reinforces the hand without replacing it. Often formed from metal grips or horse stirrups, it is worn across the palm and knuckles, aligning with the fist and forearm. Rooted in empty-hand striking principles, tekko strengthens punches, blocks, and forearm strikes. Its use develops wrist stability and proper structure, ensuring that power is delivered cleanly and efficiently.<\/div><\/div><\/div><div style=\"border-color:rgba(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"fusion-column content-box-column content-box-column content-box-column-5 col-lg-3 col-md-3 col-sm-3 fusion-content-box-hover content-box-column-first-in-row\"><div class=\"col content-box-wrapper content-wrapper link-area-link-icon content-icon-wrapper-yes icon-hover-animation-fade\" style=\"background-color:transparent;\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"heading heading-with-icon icon-left\"><div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"image\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/tonfas.jpg\" width=\"225\" height=\"225\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div><h2 class=\"content-box-heading\" style=\"font-size:24px;line-height:29px;\">Tonfa (\u30c8\u30f3\u30d5\u30a1\u30fc)<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"content-container\" style=\"color:#4a4e57;\">\n<p>The tonfa consists of a main shaft (<strong data-start=\"3403\" data-end=\"3415\">monouchi<\/strong>) and a perpendicular handle (<strong data-start=\"3445\" data-end=\"3454\">tsuka<\/strong>), allowing it to be gripped or rotated along the forearm. Adapted from the handle of the millstone (<em data-start=\"3555\" data-end=\"3564\">ishiusu<\/em>), it transforms rotation into defense and impact. Through blocking, striking, and controlled spinning, the tonfa builds forearm strength and teaches fluid transition between guard and attack.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div style=\"border-color:rgba(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"fusion-column content-box-column content-box-column content-box-column-6 col-lg-3 col-md-3 col-sm-3 fusion-content-box-hover \"><div class=\"col content-box-wrapper content-wrapper link-area-link-icon content-icon-wrapper-yes icon-hover-animation-fade\" style=\"background-color:transparent;\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"heading heading-with-icon icon-left\"><div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"image\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Tinbe-Rochin.jpg\" width=\"225\" height=\"225\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div><h2 class=\"content-box-heading\" style=\"font-size:24px;line-height:29px;\">Tinbe\u2013R\u014dchin (\u76fe\u5175\u30fb\u516d\u89aa)<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"content-container\" style=\"color:#4a4e57;\">\n<p>Tinbe\u2013r\u014dchin unites shield and spear as a single expression of combat. The <strong data-start=\"2138\" data-end=\"2147\">tinbe<\/strong>, traditionally made from turtle shell or woven materials, is held close to the body, while the <strong data-start=\"2243\" data-end=\"2253\">r\u014dchin<\/strong> is a short spear or dagger-like blade designed for quick thrusts. Influenced by Southeast Asian and Chinese weapons, this system emphasizes positioning, footwork, and coordinated movement, allowing offense to emerge from behind a stable defense.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div style=\"border-color:rgba(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"fusion-column content-box-column content-box-column content-box-column-7 col-lg-3 col-md-3 col-sm-3 fusion-content-box-hover \"><div class=\"col content-box-wrapper content-wrapper link-area-link-icon content-icon-wrapper-yes icon-hover-animation-fade\" style=\"background-color:transparent;\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"heading heading-with-icon icon-left\"><div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"image\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/kama.jpg\" width=\"225\" height=\"225\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div><h2 class=\"content-box-heading\" style=\"font-size:24px;line-height:29px;\">Kama (\u938c)<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"content-container\" style=\"color:#4a4e57;\">The kama is a blade born from the fields, where precision determined survival. Consisting of a short wooden handle (<strong data-start=\"1763\" data-end=\"1768\">e<\/strong>) and curved steel blade (<strong data-start=\"1794\" data-end=\"1800\">ha<\/strong>), it was adopted during times when swords were forbidden. Used singly or in pairs, the kama emphasizes close-range control, hooking, trapping, and cutting. Its practice sharpens awareness, distance, and respect for the edge.<\/div><\/div><\/div><div style=\"border-color:rgba(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"fusion-column content-box-column content-box-column content-box-column-8 col-lg-3 col-md-3 col-sm-3 fusion-content-box-hover content-box-column-last content-box-column-last-in-row\"><div class=\"col content-box-wrapper content-wrapper link-area-link-icon content-icon-wrapper-yes icon-hover-animation-fade\" style=\"background-color:transparent;\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"heading heading-with-icon icon-left\"><div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"image\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-orig-src=\"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/eku.jpg\" width=\"225\" height=\"225\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div><h2 class=\"content-box-heading\" style=\"font-size:24px;line-height:29px;\">Eku (\u6ac2)<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"content-container\" style=\"color:#4a4e57;\">\n<p>The eku carries the weight of Okinawa\u2019s maritime life, shaped by tide and labor. Typically longer and heavier than a standard b\u014d, it features a broad blade (<strong data-start=\"1361\" data-end=\"1369\">hera<\/strong>) and tapered handle. Adapted from the oars used by fishermen, its asymmetry produces powerful cuts, thrusts, and sweeping strikes. The eku demands rooted stance and decisive movement, reminding the practitioner that power must be supported by balance.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .heading-link:hover .icon i.circle-yes,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box:hover .heading-link .icon i.circle-yes,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-link-icon-hover .heading .icon i.circle-yes,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t.fusion-content-boxes-2 .fusion-content-box-hover .link-area-box-hover .heading .icon i.circle-yes {\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tbackground-color: #65bc7b !important;\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tborder-color: #65bc7b !important;\n\t\t\t\t\t\t}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-3{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-3{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-3{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-4{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div><\/div><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"100-width.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-30","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/30","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=30"}],"version-history":[{"count":29,"href":"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/30\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":604,"href":"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/30\/revisions\/604"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gojuryu-southerncape.co.za\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=30"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}