Nanbu, Yoshinao (1943-)

Yoshinao Nanbu was born in 1943 in the Bushi family. From his first steps he was raised in a spirit of martial arts. His grandfather was the famous Sumotori Yoko Zuna, his father was an instructor of a Judo and Jiu jitsu in the Japanese police (5th Dan), and his uncle was master of Kendo and Aikido. Nanbu´s choice during his studies was Karate. Trained in the Samurai way, he became Japanese champion in 1962. As an eminent fighter in 1964. he was invited by Master Henry Plée, the promoter of Karate in France, to popularize this martial art in France and the rest of Europe.

Nanbu responded to the invitation, traveled around Europe giving seminars and demonstrations and at the same time took part in numerous tournaments, which at that time was as important as today's World championships. As a response to demands of modern Karate art and school, he created Sankukai karate, based on his great experience. Sankukai soon became very popular all over the world.

1976 was a turning point for Nanbu´s work. Disappointed with negative emotions, manipulation and immaturity surrounding him, he stopped teaching and retired from all activities. In 1977 Yoshinao founded a new martial art called Nanbudo, oriented towards a constantly renewed research.

In 1978, after official promotion, Nanbudo started its journey around the world, and was accepted by young and old, Masters and beginners. Yoshinao Nanbu, the founder and technical director of Worldwide Nanbudo Association, lives in Paris, travels around the world representing and teaching Nanbudo.

Reprinted with persmission from the Worldwide nanbudo federation's website at:
nanbudo-institut@zg.tel.hr (Edited for punctuation and clarity)