The History of Matsumura Kenpo
Contributed by James Knoblet

Early Okinawan karate called Tode or Todi was actually a mixture of Asian fighting arts. The Okinawans, being a seafaring people during the 13th and 14th centuries, were in contact with several Asian nations. It seems likely that Okinawan sailors visiting foreign ports may have been impressed with local fighting techniques and may have adopted those methods they deemed most effective. Interest in unarmed fighting arts were greatly increased during the 14th century when King Sho Hashi of the Chuzan Kingdom established rule over all of Okinawa and banned the use of all weapons. This ban was intensified even more in 1609 when the Satsuma Clan of Japan invaded and occupied Okinawa. The only means of protection for the Okinawans was Todi or empty hand fighting. The practice of this art was done in secrecy away from the eyes of the Japanese samurai. This veil of secrecy existed until the start of 20th century.

Chatanyara was one of the earliest masters of Todi. Some authorities put his date of birth at about 1670 in the village of Chatan, while others place his birth at a later date. Reportedly, he spent 20 years in China practicing both internal and external styles from various masters. He did spend time in Okinawa studying with Master Takahara. Chatanyara is also famous for developing several kobudo kata such as Chatanyara no sai, Chatanyara no kon and Yaragua no Tunfa. In his most famous duel, he defeated a Japanese samurai with an oar.

Another important master was Tode Sakugawa (1733-1815). Master Sakugawa’s teacher was a Chinese military attaché named Kushanku. Kushanku may actually have been the man’s title rather than his name. In any event, Sakugawa traveled to China with Kushanku and spent anywhere from 4 to 10 years in China learning from the great master.

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