Hohan Soken - A Life of a Okinawan Karate Grand Master

Discover the life and legacy of Hohan Soken, the legendary 10th Dan and founder of Matsumura Seito Shorin Ryu Karate. This historic documentary unveils newly discovered and lost footage of this pivotal figure in karate history.

Delve into the biography of Soken Sensei and witness his journey in Karate-Do, from his early training to his role in bringing traditional karate to the modern era. Experience the power and grace of his signature White Crane Kata, a closely guarded secret of the style.

This video features rare historic footage of Soken Sensei performing a comprehensive range of Shorin Ryu Kata, including:

• Naihanchi 1-3
• Seisan
• Chinto
• Kusanku
• Gojushiho
• Rohai
• Tsuken bo
• Tonfa
• Kama Kusari
• Hakutsuru

Beyond the kata, explore weapons kata and more, offering a complete look at the Matsumura Seito Shorin Ryu style. See exceptional performances by some of Soken Sensei's top students in Okinawa during the 1960s.

Hohan Soken was a direct student of Nabe Matsumura, a descendant of the renowned Sokon Matsumura, and a key figure in preserving and evolving the Shōrin-Ryu style. He emphasized bunkai, the practical application of karate techniques, and his teachings continue to influence karate practitioners today.

This documentary is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of Okinawan Karate, the evolution of Matsumura Seito Shorin Ryu, and the life of a true Karate Grand Master. The footage, compiled from original 8mm film reels and expertly re-edited, provides a fascinating glimpse into the early days of Karate in Okinawa. While the video quality is historical, the content is invaluable for understanding the roots of this powerful martial art.