Gichin Funakoshi

Gichin Funakoshi was a pioneering martial artist born in 1868 in Okinawa.

He played a crucial role in popularizing karate, developing the Shotokan style and introducing it to mainland Japan.

Funakoshi dedicated his life to teaching and promoting karate, emphasizing its spiritual and philosophical aspects alongside physical techniques.

He authored several books on karate and is widely regarded as the "father of modern karate." Funakoshi's teachings stressed the importance of character development, humility, and non-violence.

His influence on martial arts extended globally, and he continued practicing and teaching karate well into his 80s.