At the heart of our dojo keiko-gi badge lies the red Hidari-gomon or Mitsudome, an ancient symbol deeply rooted in Okinawan history. This symbol, the coat-of-arms once used by the Ryukyu Royal Sho Family, represents the historical origins of our art.
The badge shown below, at the top we have the kanji for "Ryukyu Karate Kobudo". Ryukyu (琉球), the name for the islands of Okinawa, the birthplace of karate, before Japanese annexation in 1879. On the lower portion we have the name of our dojo.
Inside the crest, the gold ring symbolizes a closed "Enso" - 円相 (circle), symbolizing the circular movement and Zen philosophy that guide our training.
The image of a fist, representing the power and strength of karate, and it is also the symbol used by our mentor Tamaki-Hanshi of Shinjin-Ryu Okinawa-Te on his logo.
The vines represent growth and the continuous process of gaining knowledge and learning, again also seen on Tamaki-Hanshi's logo.
The crossed "Sai" honoring our rich heritage of Okinawan weaponry which originates from Ryukyu Kobudo Tesshinkan and Hidemi Tamayose-sensei.
At the heart of the Shuhaku-den crest, is the rising sun, which stands as a symbol of renewal, perseverance, and the enduring legacy of Ryukyu Karate. Here we show it with a worn and textured appearance which reflects the passage of time - acknowledging the struggles, hardships, and refinement that shape both the art and the practitioner. Just as karate evolves through diligent training, the sun’s imperfect edges remind us that mastery is a lifelong journey, shaped by experience, effort, and an unwavering spirit.
Within the crest is the image of the crane which represents the origins of Hakutsuru (White Crane), grace, discipline, and longevity - qualities that are central to our approach and embody the precision and fluidity we strive to achieve in our movements.
At the top of the crest, the kanji "Ryukyu Karate Jutsu". On the side, the kanji "Shuhaku-den" signifies our dojo’s unique focus, blending the old ways of Okinawa with the techniques and philosophies of Shuri-te, Naha-te, and Hakutsuru.
The name "Shuri" holds profound significance in the world of Okinawan karate. Now, an historical district within Naha, which served as a major center for the development of karate on the island of Okinawa.
Many renowned karate masters, such as Ankō Itosu and Chojun Miyagi, hailed from Shuri, and their teachings significantly influenced the evolution of modern karate styles.
In keeping with this historical legacy, the Shuri Dojo is dedicated to preserving the "old ways" (Koryu) of Okinawan karate. We emphasize authentic techniques, traditional training methods, and a focus on practical application and self-defense, distinguishing ourselves from many modern sport-oriented karate styles that may prioritize competition and athleticism.
