The History of Karate: Okinawan Goju-Ryu

by Morio Higaonna, Alanna Higaonna (Translator)

The result of decades of research into the history of Goju-ryu, "The History of Karate" is based on information Morio Higaonna gathered while training as a young student at the Garden Dojo of Chojun Miyagi, on hundreds of hours of interviews he conducted with senior Okinawan karateka, students, friends and relatives of both Chojun Miyagi and Kanryo Higaonna, and on personal research he carried out in China. The book is of high quality and well illustrated. It is a treasure house of facts concerning the early history of Okinawan karate, descriptions of the early training and, best of all, it describes Chojun Miyagi’s ethical ideals, teaching methods and way of life, providing a valuable source of knowledge and understanding to guide the present day karateka. This book should be on the shelf of every serious student of karate, and it should be read often.

Genres: Martial Arts

220 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1991

Reviews

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read for anyone set on learning and passing on the teachings of Chojun Miyagi.

[Kelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

The fact that the writing isn't superb hardly matters as the stories and amazingly well-researched history speaks for itself. If you're looking for a cut and dry timeline check Wikipedia. But if you're looking to understand the spirit and philosophy behind Goju-Ryu and get to know the teachers behind it then this is for you. Morio Higaonna Sensei has compiled an exhaustive history and biography of Goju-Ryu through interviews, research, and actual trips to the sites. While we cannot all dedicate our lives to karate like he has, this book will allow all to gain a deeper understanding of the art.