Sesin Nagamine The creator of the Matsubayashi-Ryu style Date of Birth: 01.01.1907 Country: Japan

1. Origins and Early Life
2. Training and Mentors
3. Police and Military Service
4. Advanced Training and Specialization
5. Establishing His Own Style
6. Post-War Growth and Expansion
7. Buddhism and Meditation
8. Legacy and Influence

Origins and Early Life

Born on May 10, 1907, in Okinawa, Nagamine Shoshin was the son of a farmer. From a young age, he exhibited poor health, prompting him to seek solace in karate.

Training and Mentors

Initiated by Kuba Tedjin, a master of Tomari-te, Nagamine began practicing karate, gradually improving his physical strength. His teachings were further refined under the guidance of Kiyana, Taro, and Aragaki, leading him to master several karate techniques.

Police and Military Service

In 1928, Nagamine joined the Japanese army and was deployed to China. Upon returning to Okinawa in 1931, he became a police officer, serving in the Kadena Police Station. During this period, he received exceptional training in karate under the tutelage of Kiyana for four years.

Advanced Training and Specialization

In 1936, Nagamine enrolled in the Central Police Academy in Tokyo, where he further honed his skills in kumite under Motobu Teiki. His advancements in the field led him to obtain a Renshi degree in karate and a 3rd dan in kendo in 1940.

Establishing His Own Style

Establishing his first dojo in Tomari in 1942, Nagamine opened the doors for the development of his signature style, Matsubayashi-ryu. Named after Matsumura Sokon in 1947, the style incorporated significant influences from Nagamine's previous mentors.

Post-War Growth and Expansion

After leaving police service in 1953, Nagamine established a renowned dojo in Naha city. Involved in the formation of the Okinawa Karate Federation, he became its vice-president and later its advisor and consultant.

Buddhism and Meditation

Nagamine embraced Zen Buddhism in 1969, studying under the guidance of priests Okamoto and Sakayama. From that point on, meditation became an integral part of the Matsubayashi-ryu training regimen.

Legacy and Influence

Matsubayashi-ryu flourished under Nagamine's leadership, attracting over 10,000 students worldwide. He passed away in 1997, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of karate. The style continues to be led by his son, Hoshi Nagamine, a 9th-degree black belt in Okinawan karate and president of the World Serin-ryu Karate-do Federation.