New book
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Bringing Funakoshi Gigō’s thoughts to English readers for the first time
Eric Shahan, a highly accomplished translator known for his numerous English editions of classic Japanese martial arts texts—from ninjutsu and jūjutsu treatises to seminal karate works by masters such as Mabuni Kenwa and Motobu Chōki—once again delivers a remarkable contribution to the study of traditional martial arts. With The Fleeting Karate Master: Funakoshi Gigō, his Continue reading
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The blog as a book
Karate’s history is richer and more complex than popular narratives often suggest. Based on this blog, Investigations into the history of karate (Lulu, 2025) brings together a diverse collection of essays that explore the art’s overlooked figures, pivotal moments, and forgotten contexts. From the pioneers of Hanashiro Chōmo and Yabu Kentsū to the appearance of karate Continue reading
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Annotated bibliography of Funakoshi Gichin
I am pleased that my new book is finally available: “An Annotated Bibliography of Funakoshi Gichin. Including a list of selected books and articles“ (Lulu, 2025). Considered by many to be the father of modern karatedō, Funakoshi Gichin (1868–1957) is undoubtedly one of the most important pioneers of modern karate, both as a martial art Continue reading
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New edition of Patrick McCarthy’s Tanpenshu
After a long wait, it’s finally here: the new edition of Patrick McCarthy’s Tanpenshu (2024). Funakoshi Gichin (1868–1957) was a fascinating figure in Japanese martial arts history and a peer of the karate masters Yabu Kentsū (1866–1937), Hanashiro Chōmo (1869–1945) and Motobu Chōki (1870–1944). Best known for popularising karate in mainland Japan, Funakoshi was also Continue reading
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Biography of Yabu Kentsū published
After three years of extensive research and writing my biography of Yabu Kentsū has finally been published. The book can be ordered here. About Yabu Kentsū Not so well known in the Western Hemisphere, Kentsū Yabu (1866–1937) is a pivotal figure in Okinawan history. Born in the small village of Yamakawa very close to Shuri, Continue reading
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Itosu Ankō biography published
After more than three years of work, the first comprehensive biography of Ankō Itosu (1831–1915) has finally been published. Itosu trained a new generation of martial artists who were responsible for the further spread of this unique art. His students included Yabu Kentsū, Hanashiro Chōmo, Funakoshi Gichin, Motobu Chōki, Gusukuma Shinpan, Mabuni Kenwa, Tōyama Kanken Continue reading
Investigations into the history of karate 