History

Matsubayashi Shorin-Ryu was founded by Sensei Shoshin Nagamine. Nagamine was born on July 15, 1907, in Naha City, Okinawa. Sensei Nagamine trained under multiple practitioners in Okinawa, namely Ankichi Arakaki, Chotoku Kyan, and Choki Motobu "Motobu the Monkey." In July of 1947, Sensei Nagamine decided the name "Matsubayashi-Ryu" (Way of the Pine Forest) to honor Matsumura Sokon of Shuri-te and Matsumora Kosaku of Tomari-te. Training in Karate till the very end, Sensei Nagamine passed away on November 2, 1997, Naha, Okinawa.

Sensei Eihachi Ota trained under Sensei Nagamine at the Hombu Dojo. Since Sensei Nagamine prohibited sparing in the Hombu Dojo, a group of students planned to create a new school. Sensei Shima Masao, Kishaba, and Taba founded the Shima Dojo. Sensei Ota had the opportunity to train in the Shima Dojo as well. Ever since Sensei Ota moved to the United States in 1973, he has been teaching Matsubayashi Shorin-Ryu in Los Angeles. Being the highest ranking practitioner of Matsubayashi Shorin-Ryu in the U.S., he emphasizes personal development and disciplined progress through practicing Kata(form), Kumite(sparring), and Kobudo(weapons).