Shorei-Ryu Shorei, like Shorin, is the Okinawan name for the Chinese Shaolin Monastery. However, the karate practiced in Naha differs so greatly from that practiced in Shuri and Tomari that one must assume that a completely different interpretation of Shaolin Quan fa was handed down here. Furthermore, the names of many Kata of Naha-te (Shorei-ryu) refer to what Chinese consider mystical numbers. This may also indicate a stronger spiritual influence. One could also say that in Shuri and Tomari, one side or faction of martial arts experts from Shaolin taught, and in Naha, the other side/faction.

It's as if two car companies were racing, one relying on diesel engines while the other used gasoline engines. It is said that a Chinese master named Wai Chin Zhan lived in Naha and taught his art. In any case, the famous Okinawan martial arts expert Kanryo Higashionna also traveled to China to study there. Both Kenwa Mabuni (the founder of Shito-ryu) and Chojun Miyagi (the founder of Goju-ryu) learned from Kanryo Higashionna. Only nine Kata were officially part of Naha-te. However, it is known that versions of the Hakutsuru Kata were also practiced in secret. It is also unknown how many secret family styles still exist. For example, Ryuei Ryu, based in Naha, was not taught publicly until 1970! The main characteristics of Shorei-Ryu are the diverse use of open-hand techniques, circular blocking techniques, and snapping kicks in the gedan area. In addition, there are a variety of locking and throwing techniques. Furthermore, the body is hardened against strikes and the muscles are strengthened through specific strength training. It is rare to see a Shorei-Ryu grandmaster who is not of a rather strong constitution. The use of short, hard techniques in close combat, combined with throwing techniques, is the specialty of Shorei-Ryu. Likewise, the Sanchin-Dachi and Shiko-Dachi stances are particularly well-suited for this style of fighting. The original components of Shorei were the Kata: Kururunfa Sanchin (Kaishu) Old version with open hands Saifa Sanseiru Seienchin Seipai Seisun Shisochin Suparimpei Pachu Heiku Paiku Anan Ohan Paiho Sochin Niseishi Useishi Unshu Chojun Miyagi is the originator of the Kata: Tensho Gekisai Dai Ichi Gekisai Dai Ni Kobudo training is extremely popular in Shorei-ryu. Whether it's the bo, sai, tonfa, or kama, all weapons are a natural part of a grandmaster's skills. Karate and kobudo are inextricably linked in Okinawa, and this is especially evident in Shorei-ryu. The most well-known school of Shorei-ryu is Goju-ryu. Furthermore, Shorei-ryu is also an essential component of Kenwa Mabuni's Shito-ryu.