The Development of Matsubayashi Shorin-Ryu
Weapons bans, imposed on the Okinawans at various points though-out their history, encouraged the refinement of empty-hand techniques. For this reason, much of the training was in secret until modern times. Further refinement came with the influence of other martial arts brought by nobles and trade merchants to the island. Two of the most influential Masters of Okinawan Karate development are Sokon "Bushi" Matsumura (1809-1901) and Kosako Matsumora (1829-1898). They in turn become the teachers of Yara from the Chartan Village, Yasutsune Itosu the "Iron Horse", Kokan Matsumora of Tomari, Chotoku Kyan a scholar and warrior, Choki Motobu who expounded the importance of knowing "distance" between the opponents,and Ankichi Arakaki a specialist in technique. These great masters influenced directly or by second generation of teaching the style of Grandmaster Shoshin Nagamine. During Nagamine's lifetime the Okinawan Government declared Nagamine an intangible cultural treasure because of the rich legacy he established and the important position he holds in the history of karate. Grandmaster Nagamine was`10th degree black belt and founder of the Matsubayashi Shorin-ryu style of karate that we teach at Oceanside Martial Arts.
In 1947 Grandmaster Nagamine wanting to keep the names of Matsumura of Shuri and Matsumora of Tomari forever with us named his style of karate Matsubayshi-ryu. Grandmaster Nagamine trained 3 great masters that directly influence the training at Oceanside Martial Arts. Nagamine former students are Master Masao Shima (1933-2003), Master Chokea Kishaba(1929-2000) and Master Kensai Taba (1933-present).
The instructors at Oceanside Martial Arts have been certified in Matsubayashi Shorin Ryu. It is through their influence and direct training that help develop our students into champions of life and martial art.
