Our History
The path we have walked
1954 The Founding and Vision of Shōreikan
Shōreikan was founded in 1954 by its founder, TOGUCHI Seikichi, in Koza City, Okinawa Prefecture (now Okinawa City) as the “Karatedō Okinawa Gōjū-ryū Kenkyūjo Shōreikan.”
This occurred the year following the passing of Miyagi Chojun, founder of Goju-ryu, and symbolized Watariguchi Sensei's unwavering resolve to pursue authentic Goju-ryu karate during a transitional period of reorganization within the school's structure.
After its base of operations moved from Okinawa to Tokyo in 1960, the name was changed from the traditional character form “尚禮館” to the current “尚礼館”.
"Shōrei-kan Okinawa Goju-ryu Karate Research Institute" Established
Founded in Koza City, Okinawa Prefecture (now Okinawa City). While preserving the traditions of Goju-ryu, it took the first step toward new research.
TOGUCHI moved to the Tokyo
TOGUCHI relocated his base to Tokyo and began teaching at places like the Yoyogi Shuureikai Karate Dojo.
Meguro Dojo Opens
Shōrei-kan Tokyo HQ Dojo Opens
Headquartered in Nakano City, Tokyo.
Overseas Expansion and Headquarters Relocation
- Shōrei-kan Tokyo Headquarters to relocate to a newly constructed building within the same ward
- Shōrei-kan America Headquarters Established in New York (Full-Scale Overseas Expansion)
Global dissemination
In 1972, the Canadian Dojo was established, and in 1982, the Italian (Milan) Dojo was established.
Passing of TOGUCHI Seikichi and Organizational Succession
Following the founder's passing, managing the organization became extremely difficult, leading to the closure of the Tokyo headquarters dojo in 2004. The organization subsequently dispersed across Japan, overseas, and Okinawa.
However, through the efforts of his most devoted disciples, some dojos in Japan, Canada, the United States, and other countries continued their activities as the Okinawa Karate-do Goju-ryu Shōrei-kai.
Restarting as the “International Shōrei-kai”
To authentically carry forward the activities and spirit of the former “Okinawa Karate-do Goju-ryu Shōrei-kai” and strengthen global collaboration, we have embarked on a new beginning as the “Okinawa Karate-do Goju-ryu International Shōrei-kai” (HQ: Ichikawa City, Chiba Prefecture).
ABOUT THIS PAGE
- Last Updated
- September 13, 2025
- Contact
- General Affairs and Planning Division,
International Shōrei-kai Secretariat