The founder of Wado-Ryu Karate-Do Hironori Otsuka was born in June 1892 and started to practice Ju-Jitsu from the age of five to overcome infirmity and illness. Otsuka studied under T.Nakayama and at the age of twenty nine Otsuka succeeded his teacher and became the fourth Grandmaster of Shinto Yoshin Ryu. In 1921 Otsuka began to study Karate, first with Funakoshi Sensei and then with Sensei’s Mabuni and Motobu. Otsuka still not satisfied with his study, then studied Yagyu Shiage Ryu Kenjitsu. Finally in putting together all of these vast experiences Otsuka created the basis of his martial art “Wado-Ryu”. Otsuka Sensei sadly passed away in 1982, but his wishes and spirit were firmly carried on by his son Jiro who had over forty years of direct daily training from his father. On the death of his father he was re-named H.Otsuka II. Sadly he passed away in 2015, but has been succeeded by his son Kazutaka who through tradition has now taken the name H.Otsuka III. The Otsuka Soke (founding family) is represented in Europe by the Wado-Ryu Karate-Do Academy which is headed by a direct student of the original Grandmaster, the legendary and world renowned M.Shiomitsu 9th Dan Hanshi. The Wado-Ryu Karate-Do Academy is the only organisation in Europe teaching and practicing the correct authentic techniques, theories, movements, spirit and standards of Wado-Ryu Karate-Do and Wado-Ryu Ju-Jitsu Kempo according to the wishes of the founder and his family.

INSTRUCTORS

The instructors shown below have since our official founding in 1984 made significant and invaluable contributions to our group.

Each one in their own unique way have brought skills and expertise to our group that have helped enormously to where it stands today. 

Assistant Senior Grades

Appointed Officers