Meet Suguru, Karate Master
“I found the origin of karate and since then I wasn’t able to quit.”
From the moment he first gripped karate’s ancient techniques, Suguru Tsukamoto sensei’s journey has been defined by resilience and depth.
Drawn as a child to martial arts' raw power, his true transformation came during a pivotal trip to Okinawa in university. There, he trained under Joen Nakazato, the founder of Shorinjiryu Karate, and discovered karate’s soul beyond competition: its philosophical core woven into every strike.
This awakening shifted his view from sport to lifestyle. In Okinawa, students live and breathe karate; it molds their character through rigor and mindfulness. Suguru sensei brought back these values to Tokyo, reshaping his dojo with a focus on self-defense, inner growth, and personalized attention.
Unlike modern, tournament-driven karate, Shorinjiryu practices are intimate — small classes with hands-on guidance, where every student develops at their own pace. At Suguru’s dojo, where he passes on the teachings of karate to future generations, you won’t just learn techniques — you’ll connect with karate’s living heritage. Through disciplined training in kihon (basics), kata (forms), and self-defense, practitioners experience growth in strength, awareness, and confidence.
Shorinjiryu Karate is a traditional Japanese martial art founded in the mid-20th century, which combines elements of Okinawan karate, Chinese martial arts, and Japanese jujutsu to form a comprehensive self-defense system.
Known for its upright stances, efficient techniques, and scientific approach to movement, Shorinjiryu emphasizes both linear and circular motions. It integrates strikes, blocks, throws, and joint locks, aiming to develop balance, speed, and precision rather than brute strength.
A defining feature of Shorinjiryu is its emphasis on both physical technique and mental discipline. Practitioners study kihon (fundamentals), kata (formal patterns), and kumite (sparring), along with practical self-defense applications.
Unlike many sport-focused karate styles, Shorinjiryu preserves a deep connection to its roots in samurai-era martial philosophy, placing equal importance on character development and ethical conduct. It continues to be practiced around the world, valued for its structured training and holistic approach to martial arts.
Whether you're a lifelong martial artist or a curious first-timer, the experience of training under Suguru-sensei is both accessible and enriching. He welcomes international students, and the dojo is designed to foster respect, learning, and cultural exchange.
The opportunity to learn directly from a master of his caliber is something that stays with you long after you leave the dojo.
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