Continue the Tradition
Experience the power and discipline of authentic Shotokan Karate from the comfort of your home.
Welcome to Shotokan Studio
Welcome to a community dedicated to the art of Shotokan Karate. At Shotokan Studio, we believe that karate is more than just a method of self-defense; it is a lifelong path toward self-mastery, physical fitness, and mental clarity. Whether you are a total beginner or an experienced martial artist, you are entering a space where respect, hard work, and the “Dojo Kun” guide everything we do.
Our virtual dojo is a place to push your limits, refine your spirit, and join a lineage of practitioners spanning generations. We are honored to have you here and look forward to helping you reach your goals—one strike, one kata, and one breath at a time.
Welcome to the family. Let’s begin.
The Roots of Our Tradition
Gichin Funakoshi: The Father of Modern Karate
The story of Shotokan begins on the island of Okinawa, where martial arts were originally practiced in secret. Gichin Funakoshi (1868–1957), a schoolteacher by profession and a poet by heart, is the visionary credited with bringing this “empty hand” art to the world. A student of the great masters Anko Azato and Anko Itosu, Funakoshi synthesized the best elements of traditional Okinawan styles into a disciplined system designed for both physical health and spiritual growth.
The name itself is a tribute to the founder’s character. “Shoto” was Funakoshi’s pen name for his poetry, meaning “Pine Waves”—the sound of the wind blowing through the needles of pine trees. “Kan” means hall or house. Therefore, Shotokan literally translates to the”House of Pine Waves”.
Master Funakoshi famously stated, “The ultimate aim of Karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants.” He transformed Karate from a mere combat system into Karate-Do the way of the empty hand—shifting the focus from outward violence to inward discipline and respect. Today, we continue this tradition by teaching the same values of humility, sincerity, and self-control that Master Funakoshi championed over a century ago.
Our Philosophy: Continue the Tradition
Shotokan Studio was founded to bring the benefits of traditional karate to the modern world. We focus on the “Three Ks” of Shotokan:
In Shotokan Karate, Kihon (基本) translates literally to “basics” or “fundamentals.” It is the bedrock upon which all martial arts prowess is built. Kihon involves the repetitive practice of isolated techniques—stances (Dachi), punches (Tsuki), blocks (Uke), and kicks (Geri). The goal is to refine body mechanics, alignment, and breathing until the movements become instinctive and “correct” without conscious thought.
In Shotokan Karate, Kata (型) translates to “form” or “pattern.” It is a choreographed sequence of movements—including blocks, strikes, and kicks—against a series of imaginary opponents. If Kihon provides the “alphabet,” then Kata is the “prose” of karate. It is the vessel through which the history, strategy, and soul of the art have been preserved for centuries.
In Shotokan Karate, Kumite (組手) translates to “entwined hands” or “meeting of hands.” It is the practical application of Kihon (basics) and Kata (forms) through controlled combat with a partner. While Kihon builds the tool and Kata provides the blueprint, Kumite is where the student learns to apply their skills under the pressure of a live, reacting opponent.