Butokukan Karate is a living tradition rooted in the birthplace of karate: Okinawa, Japan.

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Our lineage begins in the 19th century Okinawa with Sokon Matsumura, a legendary martial artist honored by the royal family for his courage and skill. Given the epithet Bushi by the King, Matsumura is celebrated as the forefather of modern karate.

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From Matsumura’s teachings emerged Anko Itosu, famed for his strength and discipline, earning the title “Iron Horse.” Itosu’s influence shaped the foundations of karate as we know it today, inspiring students like Gichin Funakoshi, who introduced Okinawan karate to Japan and taught at the prestigious Butokuai Military Arts College.

 

This tradition continued through masters such as Kenwa Mabuni, founder of Shito Ryu. Among his students was Yun Pon Gun, whose dedication carried karate forward during challenging times of post World War II Japan.

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His most devoted student was Yoichi Nakachi, who trained in secret during the post-war martial arts ban, earning his black belt against all odds.

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In 1959, Nakachi brought this proud heritage to Seattle, renaming it Butokukan Karate in 1963. His vision and discipline laid the foundation for generations of martial artists.

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His top student, Robert Hill, began training under in 1961 and earned his Shodan in 1963. After Nakachi’s departure in 1964, Soke Hill became the leader and shaped Butokukan into what it is today. 

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Today, under the leadership of Shihan Tyron Asphy, Butokukan stands as a beacon of excellence—honoring its roots while guiding students into the future.