Katsumi Tamaki 10th dan Hanshi, was born on September 12, 1943, in Urasoe, Okinawa. From an early age, Tamaki sensei displayed a remarkable talent and passion for karate. His father, a respected karate master and former student of Choshin Chibana, recognized his son's potential and became his first instructor.

Urasoe was completely razed during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945 at the end of World War II. Almost half of the population died during the battle, with some of his family losing their lives, and their home lost. They were refugees for a time before being resettled. Later they moved back home to the village of Urasoe, his father embarked on a journey that would ultimately shape his life.

Growing up in Urasoe, Tamaki sensei was immersed in the world of karate. He spent countless hours visiting other villages and training at local dojo, honing his skills and learning from some of the finest martial artists in the region. Tamaki sensei quickly gained a reputation as a dedicated and disciplined practitioner, earning respect among his peers.

In 1962, at the age of 19, Tamaki made the bold decision to move to the Japanese mainland, seeking further challenges and opportunities to expand his knowledge. He settled in Osaka, where he joined a renowned karate dojo under the guidance of Master Kenji Yamamoto. Under Master Yamamoto's tutelage, Tamaki continued to refine his techniques and deepen his understanding of the art.

Over the years, Tamaki sensei became a prominent figure in the Japanese karate community. His exceptional skill, combined with his unwavering commitment to the principles of karate, earned him the respect of both peers and instructors alike.

Katsumi Tamaki 10th dan Hanshi at home

Tamaki sensei's karate style was characterized by its seamless blend of traditional Okinawan techniques and the dynamic influences he absorbed from his training on the mainland.

In 1974 with permission from his teachers, Tamaki sensei founded his own karate school, the Seitōryūkan (正統流館) (Traditional method place), in Osaka. The dojo quickly gained recognition for its rigorous training methods and the exceptional caliber of its students. Tamaki's teaching philosophy emphasized not only physical strength and technique but also the development of mental fortitude, discipline, and respect.

Throughout his career, Tamaki sensei remained an influential figure in the world of karate. His expertise was sought after by karate organizations worldwide, and he traveled extensively, sharing his knowledge and passion for the martial arts.

Katsumi Tamaki 10th dan Hanshi (artwork)

Several years after the passing of his father, Tamaki sensei decided it was time to promote the history and classical tradition of his fathers karate and Ryu-ha, and that of his own, the family style of "Shinjin-Ryu" (心仁流) - (シンジン流).

While working for the Hitachi company in Japan, he was tempted by the chance to expand his horizons and share his knowledge with a broader audience. Tamaki accepted an offer from Hitachi to move to the UK in 1981.

Tamaki sensei continued to practice and teach karate, establishing a dojo in his new hometown of Bracknell, Berkshire. He passionately shared his expertise with local enthusiasts and brought the authentic spirit of Okinawan karate to the British shores. His teachings attracted a diverse group of students, fostering a sense of camaraderie and cultural exchange within the dojo.

His impact on the British karate community was profound. He organized seminars, workshops, and demonstrations to raise awareness and appreciation for Okinawan karate. His dedication to preserving the traditions and values of the art earned him immense respect among practitioners and instructors alike.

Katsumi Tamaki’s legacy as a karate master continues to inspire and shape the world of martial arts. His unwavering dedication, remarkable skill, and lifelong pursuit of excellence serve as a testament to the power of karate as both a physical discipline and a path of personal growth.

Courtesy of Katsumi Tamaki sensei

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