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In 1936 the Shotokan Dojo is inaugurated, headquarters for Master Gichin Funakoshi’s Karate-do.
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In 1949 Isao Obata establishes the Nihon Karate Kyokai, as a means to help Master Funakoshi in the development of Karate-do. Even though initially the idea was that the association should include all groups, this did not occur. Neither did all of Gichin Funakoshi’s students become part of it, for example Shigeru Egami and Genshin Hironishi.
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By the end of the 40’s and the beginning of the 50’s strong friction arises within the NKK due to the commercialization of Karate-do. The great masters cut links with the NKK, that finally ends up in the hands of the Takushoku University.
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In 1951 Shotokai reunites, and the association formalizes its existence as an association in 1956. Founders: Gichin Funakoshi, Shigeru Egami and Genshin Hironishi. Objective: to preserve the true Karate-do, without considering it a sport.
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April 1957: Master Gichin Funakoshi dies. Shotokai organizes the funeral (the NKK does not assist). Gichin Funakoshi’s family delivers the legacy of O-sensei’s documents, the Shotokan and Shotokai names and his symbol (the tiger) to Shotokai, as were his wishes.
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Shigeru Egami & Genshin Hironishi share the responsibility of directing Shotokai.
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In 1981, Master Shigeru Egami dies. Genshin Hironishi continues to direct Shotokai together with his older students.
