About 500 years ago, martial art was cultivated in Okinawa under the reign of the famous hero king Shohashi. 300 years later the development of karate as a means of unarmed self defence, received tremendous impetus, since on the Island the use of weapons had been prohibited by the Japanese Government. Because of this national policy the self-defence techniques developed into a unique Okinawan martial art of karate, as we know it today.

In 1922, Master Funakoshi Gichin, President of the Okinawan Association of Martial Arts, introduced karate-do to the mainland of Japan, during the First National Athletic Exhibition, held in Tokyo.

The demonstration turned out to be a great success, due to the inspiring personality of Master Funakoshi, who cultivated the typical Japanese aspects of this ancient martial art of self-defence. Master Funakoshi always emphasised the spiritual aspects of karate, such as courage, courtesy, integrity, humility and self control karate became known as the martial art of the "true gentleman" and gained nation-wide popularity among university students. Master Funakoshi was not only a genius in martial arts but also a literary talent.

In 1949, the Japan Karate Association was established, with Master Funakoshi as the Chief Instructor. Through his exquisite skills and guidance, the Japan Karate Association could develop into a strong organization with international reputation.