There are many different opinions on the Origin of Karate. According to records available in China around B.C 520, Martial Arts such as Kempo and fisticuffs developed into Kungfu. In AD 1372 Okinawa was brought under control by China. After 20 years in 1392, about 36 families of Chinese people settled in Okinawa. These people were well-studied in Chinese Martial Arts and they taught their style to the Okinawan people. Te, which is a fighting art, which was being taught in Okinawa for centuries were mixed with the Chinese art and were known as Tang.

In 1609-Okinawa came under Japanese domination. The Japanese ruler Sangsumo clan prohibited Maritial Arts and Weapons. All Okinawans who carried weapons were cruelly punished. This lead to the phenomenal growth of Okinawan Martial Arts. They trained themselves to use their body and head as deadly weapons.Before long Okinawans started using household items and fishing instruments as weapons. Here Karate and Kobudo was being born. During those days, 3 styles of Te were formed in 3 cities called, Shuri, Naha and Tomari. These styles were later known as Shurite, Nahate and Tomarite. All most all major Karate styles were derived from these Te.

The Okinawan weaponless fighting was named Karate after a meeting conducted by Ryu Kyu Shinpo newspaper in 1937. In that meeting, Chojun Miyagi, Chomo Hana Shiro, Kentsu Yabu, Chotoku Kyan, Genwa Nakasone, Choshin Chibana, Choryo Maeshiro and Shinpan Shiroma, participated.