Truly Authentic
Okinawan Karate
We are the only US school training directly under Sensei Morinobu Maeshiro, Hanshi 10th Dan, current President of the Okinawa Shōrin-ryū Karate Kyokai (OSKK), and highest ranking master of our style in the world today.
Since the 1980s we've been dedicated students of Sensei Seikichi Iha, 10th Dan and highest ranking Shōrin-ryū master outside Okinawa prior to his passing in 2024.
The Okinawa Prefecture government designated both Iha Sensei and Maeshiro Sensei as Intangible Cultural Asset Holders in the area of Karate and Kobudo, a recognition of historical importance that has only been granted to 20 masters ever, across all styles of Karate. more...
Okinawa, April 2024
Meet Sensei Maeshiro
A 1-min introduction. Watch the full interview here or the Okinawa Karate Spirit video.
Meet Sensei Iha
A 1-min introduction. Watch the full interview here.
Our Instructors
Unmatched Experience
Each with 35+ years of dedication and practice,
our instructors personally invest time with you to develop effective and practical techniques.
They are certified by, and continue to learn from, several of the most respected Okinawan masters in the world, and want to pass it on to you.
This is Our Passion
We don't teach karate for a living.
Unlike commercialized schools, we don't sell anything and membership cost is low.
Allen Mayne
9th Dan
Started: Aug 1978
Experience: 47 yrs
Mike Dantuma
8th Dan
Started: Feb 1982
Experience: 44 yrs
Scott Morey
7th Dan
Started: Apr 1988
Experience: 38 yrs
Mark Talbot
8th Dan
Started: Sep 1988
Experience: 37 yrs
Effective Technique
No wasted motion. No movie theatrics.
Okinawan karate was born from a need to defend against life-threatening danger, not scoring points in a tournament. Shōrin-ryū emphasizes balance, minimal motion, and fluid natural movements that anyone can learn, regardless of age or physical condition.
Friendship and cooperation are critical, as certain techniques, illegal in sport styles like MMA, actually should be used if faced with a real need to protect yourself.
But don't worry, we ease you in slowly and have a lot of fun along the way. Learning is tailored to your pace and goals. Whether you want an intense full-contact experience, or just practical self-defense with light contact, we want to work with you.
Get Started
6 weeks for just $60. Uniform included!
There's no commitment or pressure to see if it's right for you. And whatever you decide, the uniform is yours to keep. Other questions? See our FAQs or give us a call.
Call or schedule a free intro class to learn more.
“There is a beauty to natural movement, because it doesn't fight against anything.”
— Sensei Seikichi Iha, 10th Dan and Designated Intangible Cultural Asset HolderVisit Us
Class Times
- AdultsMon & Wed 6-7:30 pm
- Kids (11-15)Mon & Wed 5-6:00 pm
*kids classes currently on hold
Location
Original Okinawan Karate
5260 Division Ave SE
Kentwood, MI 49508
(616) 965-6932