The founder of Wado-Ryu Karate-Do, Hironori Otsuka, first studied the Shinto Yoshin-Ryu school of Jujutsu, eventually achieving the highest rank and becoming the style’s fourth-generation successor. Later, he began training in Okinawan Karate, integrating his Jujutsu expertise with principles from Kenjutsu to form the distinctive style of Wado-Ryu. This new martial art style was officially established in 1934. With its headquarters based in Tokyo, Japan, Wado-Ryu has gained a large global following. Leadership passed to 2nd Generation Grandmaster Hironori (Jiro) Otsuka and then, after 2015, to the 3rd Generation Grandmaster Hironori (Kazutaka) Otsuka, who continues to guide the style today.

Wado-Ryu Karate-Do Renmei, also recognized as the International Federation of Wado-Ryu Karate-Do Organizations, is the official and authentic body representing Wado-Ryu Karate-Do and Wado-Ryu Jujutsu Kenpo. Wado-Ryu is one of the four primary traditional Karate styles practiced worldwide. What sets Wado-Ryu apart is its development in mainland Japan, as opposed to Okinawa where other Karate styles originated. Wado-Ryu combines elements of Jujutsu and Kenjutsu (the art of Japanese swordsmanship), staying true to the spirit of Japanese Budo.