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Ryukyu Kempo
The Original Chinese Hand of Okinawa The term Ryukyu Kempo identifies our traditional system of Okinawan martial arts. Rooted in the classical “Chinese Hand” of the Ryukyu Kingdom, this art has grown in recognition over the past several decades. With that growth, however, the term Ryukyu Kempo has increasingly been used incorrectly as a generic label, much like the word karate. Much of this misunderstanding comes from marketing the art as a “pressure point fighting system,” a simplification that reflects a limited understanding of its depth and purpose. As a result, some schools claiming to teach Ryukyu Kempo are misrepresenting the system and its methods. Our curriculum is a complete and disciplined life protection art, built on principles of anatomical knowledge, timing, positioning, and control, not gimmicks. Concepts applied in our training: Atemi Jutsu Atemi Jutsu consists of decisive striking techniques delivered with speed and precision. When applied correctly, these strikes are used to disrupt balance, stun, or disorient an assailant, creating openings for more controlling or disabling techniques. Atemi is not intended as an end in itself, but as a tactical bridge to neutralize further attack. Kyusho Jutsu Kyusho Jutsu targets specific anatomical points to incapacitate or disable an opponent beyond their ability to continue an assault. These techniques are applied with clear intent and control and should not be confused with “pressure point fighting.” Kyusho is a disciplined study of anatomy, physiology, and effect, not a collection of tricks not applicable is real self-defense situations. Tuite Jutsu Tuite Jutsu is a specific system of grappling and joint manipulation designed to control, restrain, or disable an attacker when necessary. These techniques exploit natural weaknesses in the human body by applying pressure to nerves, tendons, and ligaments in the joints. Contrary to popular belief, Tuite is not hidden within kata. These methods were transmitted from Seikichi Uehara to Oyata Sensei later in his training. Oyata Sensei developed his own interpretations, which form the foundation of the Tuite techniques taught in our curriculum today. Kobudo “The Old Way” Kobudo is the weapons art of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Training includes classical weapons such as the bo, jo, tonbo, nunte bo, eiku, sai, manji sai, chizikunbo, nunchaku, and tonfa. Historical references within our lineage also indicate the study of the sword, extending through and including the teachings of Oyata Sensei. Bogu Kumite Bogu Kumite is a unique training method within Ryukyu Kempo. Developed by Shigeru Nakamura in 1960 and later introduced to the Okinawa-te Federation, it was designed as a full-contact sparring system using specialized protective equipment. Bogu Kumite demands proper technique, structure, and intent. Practiced in a safe and controlled environment, it develops timing, resilience, and composure under pressure preparing practitioners for realistic self-protection while forging discipline, character, and mental toughness. |
*Additional References and resources:
- Kerr, George H. Okinawa, the History of an Island People. Charles E. Tuttle Company. (1965). p. 40.
- Wieger, L. Chinese Characters. Dover Publications, Inc. (1965). pp. 441, 288.
- Nishiyama, Hidetaka & Brown, Richard C. Karate: The Art of Empty Hand Fighting. Charles E. Tuttle Company. (1959). p.16
- Funakoshi, Gichin. Karate-Do My Way of Life. Kodansha International. Ltd. (1975). p. 36.
- Funakoshi, Gichin. Karate-Do Kyohan. Kodansha International Ltd. (1973). p. 7.
- Motobu, Choki. Okinawa Kempo: Karate-Jutsu on Kumite. Choki Motobu/Ryukyu Imports, Inc. (1926/1977). p. 15.
- So, Doshin. Shorinji Kempo – Philosophy and Techniques. Japan Publications Trading Co. (1974). p. 22.
- Higa, Teruyuki. Master Shigeru Nakamura and the History of Okinawa Kenpo Karate. http://www.okinawakenpokarate.com/history.asp.(2015).
- Geraldi, Albert O. The Timeline of Documented Events of the Development of Ryukyu Kempo. www.ryukyu-kempo.org/#!time-line/c1yql. (2014).
- Oyata, Seiyu. Ryu-te Renmei. http://www.ryute.com. (2015).
- Miyagi, Chojun. Historical Outline of Karate-Do, Martial Arts of Ryukyu
