Shotokan Karate has the most envied lineage of all karate styles

 Shotokan Karate has the most envied lineage of all karate styles. Firstly, includes the most famous karate master of all time, Funakoshi Gichin Sensei - the founder of modern karatedo, who brought karate from Okinawa to mainland Japan and popularized it. Secondly, the man who professionally spread karate across the world and made it scientifically based, Nakayama Masatoshi Sensei. And, lastly, Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei who revolutionized JKA style Shotokan, expanding it and returning it to its pre-WW2 Budo/Bujutsu origins.

Of course, one could add many other Shotokan masters under Funakoshi Sensei and Nakayama Sensei; however, I am naturally focusing on my particular Shotokan lineage: as I naturally can't comment on others.

Haters of Shotokan are simply haters because of the styles global unparalleled success and, as already stated, its incredible lineage: not only through a few masters, BUT MANY.

Here's some images today to celebrate our collective Shotokan lineage. OSU!

Funakoshi Gichin Sensei, Funkoshi Yoshitaka (Gigo) Sensei and Nakayama Masatoshi Sensei, with Master Funakoshi's grandson.

Funakoshi Sensei completing the execution of yoko-enpi.

Gichin Funakoshi Sensei was not only the founder of Shotokan but of modern day karate.

Nakayama Masatoshi Sensei professionally and scientifically spread karate across the world.

Nakayama Sensei also developed karate competition, but unlike mainstream competition nowadays, it was based on destructive waza. 

Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei with his main senpai, Okazaki Teruyuki Sensei.

Asai Sensei's hidari jodan mae-geri kekomi. A technique he could use from any position.

Asai Sensei and Osaka Yoshiharu: 'Best Karate: Kumite 2'. Osaka Sensei is another important mentor.

                                  © Andre Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2022).