Karate History · 歴史

Karate History Timeline

From the secret fighting arts of ancient Okinawa to the world stage — over 700 years of karate history, explored through key events, eras, regional origins, and founding figures.

10 KEY EVENTS · 6 ERAS · 700+ YEARS
c. 1300s
Ancient Okinawa
手Te — Indigenous Okinawan Fighting Arts
High
Okinawa
1609
Satsuma Period
禁Japanese Invasion and Weapons Ban
Critical
Okinawa
1800s
Tode Period
唐手Tode — Chinese Influence Formalised
High
Okinawa
1901
Modern Origins
学Karate Enters Okinawan School System
Critical
Okinawa
1922
Japan Introduction
上陸Okinawan Master Demonstrates Karate in Tokyo
Critical
Japan
1936
Japan Period
空Kara — Empty — Replaces Tang
High
Japan
1964
Organisation Era
連盟Japan National Federation Founded
High
Japan
1970
Global Expansion
世界International Federation Founded
Critical
International
2012
International Recognition
五輪Karate Granted Full International Recognition
High
International
2021
International Games Era
金Karate Debuts on the World Stage
Critical
International