Okinawa is the birthplace of karate. There are now many variations around the world that have developed from traditional Okinawan karate. Consequently a movement arose more than 10 years ago in Okinawa to preserve and promote traditional karate, as well as kobudo, by sponsoring world tournaments. This feature introduces traditional Okinawan karate and kobudo.

The people depicted above are participants in the First Okinawa Traditional Karatedo Kobudo World Tournament in Okinawa. Right: Mr. Taigo Shimabukuro, the first Champion of the Tournament. Left: Ms. Lisa Cohen (left) from the U.S.A.