Introducing the "Kensei Shinjo Seiyu Commemorative Monument" on Iejima Island, a historical site of the Uechi-ryu lineage |Okinawa Dento Karatedo Shinkokai
Ie Island
The Motobu Peninsula in the northern part of Okinawa Island is known for the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium and the upcoming theme park, 'JUNGLIA OKINAWA. Iejima, a remote island located about 9 km northwest of the main peninsula.
The "Kensei Shinjo Seiyu Commemorative Monument" was erected on December 10, 2022, on the grounds of the Ie Village General Gymnasium, located on an island that can be reached by car ferry from the main port in a pleasant 30 minutes, to commemorate the achievements of Shinjo Seiyu, an important contributor to the world of Okinawa Karate.
Shinjo Seiyu is known as an important successor to Uechi-Ryu karate-do, one of the three main schools of Okinawa Traditional Karate.
Seiyu was born in Wakayama in 1929; he joined the dojo of Uechi-Ryu founder Kanbun Uechi to begin his karate training as early as the age of 10. Following the war, he returned to Iejima, his father's hometown, and continued to train with Uechi Kanbun, never ceasing his efforts.
In 1960, he opened the Uechi-Ryu Karate-do Kadena Shubukan in Kadena. Taking advantage of its location adjacent to a US military base, he provided instruction in Uechi-Ryu Karate not only to the local population but also to many individuals connected with the US military.
Known for his strict leadership, Seiyu is said to have shown even greater severity in his training of his son Kiyohide, the current chairman of the Uechi-Ryu Karate-do Kenyu-kai.
Uechi-Ryu has its origins in the Pangainoon Kenpo that Uechi Kanbun, the founder of the style, learned in Fujian Province, China, and is characterized by its emphasis on the Sanchin kata.
It is also known for its unique training methods, which involve striking the entire body to build strength, and for the frequent use of special techniques, such as Yonhon Nukite and Boshi Ken; it has a reputation for its high level of defense.
Seiyu passed away in 1981 at the young age of 52, but he is still greatly respected by many for his achievements in passing on the techniques and spirit of Uechi-ryu karate to the next generation.
This commemorative monument stands on Iejima Island as an important historical landmark that conveys the legacy of Seiyu, who worked to preserve the tradition of Okinawa Karate and contributed to its development for future generations.
