The History of Okinawa Kenpo.
Okinawa Kenpo Karate Do was founded by Shigeru Nakamura in 1955. Master Nakamura was a practitioner of Naha Te prior to his founding of Okinawa Kenpo. Naha Te was one of the three original styles of karate from which all other styles were derived. Therefore, as far as karate styles go, this style is very close to it's origins.
Master Nakamura's school was the first to devote equal time to kumite (sparring) and kata (forms). When Master Nakamura died, Seikichi Odo became the head of Okinawa Kenpo Karate Do. Shortly thereafter Master Odo formed his own system, and passed the leadership of Okinawa Kenpo on to Master Nakamura's oldest son, Taketo Nakamura. Since that time Okinawa Kenpo has been through many transitions. Master Odo formed several organizations. His final name for his style is Ryukyu Hon Kenpo Kobojitsu. Master Odo was known world-wide for his weapons expertise. Sadly, Master Odo died March 24, 2002. He was a great teacher and will be missed by everyone who's lives he has touched.
Another prominent student of Sensei Nakamura is Taika Oyata. Sensei Oyata is known throughout the world for his pressure point knowledge and for unveiling the hidden grappling moves in kata. Like Master Odo, Master Oyata has used several different names for his teachings. The names I am most familiar with are Ryukyu Kempo and Tuite Jitsu. Like Master Odo, Master Oyata is truly an outstanding teacher. I would encourage anyone who has the opportunity, to attend one of his seminars.
For more information on Okinawa Kenpo Karate see our links page.
Shigeru Nakamura founder of
Okinawa Kenpo.
Left to right front row:
Master Seikichi Odo, Sue Roby
Back Row: Bill McGee,
Sensei Tom Newland,
Eric Shellenbarger, Kyle Shoemaker