The Four Pillars of a Yudansha Karateka:

1. Health: Whatever it takes, be healthy.
2. Get Better: Find the best instructors, do what is necessary to get to the next level.
3. Integrity: Always a work in progress
4. Share the Wealth: Do not be afraid to share your knowledge with others. 

This is real Okinawan Karate.

OUR PHILOSOPHY
Our dojo is dedicated to practicing karate in the tradition of the old Okinawan masters. We view karate as an effective means of self-defense, but more importantly, as a philosophy in which to develop the body, mind and spirit to their maximum potential. To us, character development, mental and physical discipline and self-reliance are just as important as the development of fighting skills.

OUR SYSTEM
The system of karate that is taught in our dojo is Okinawan Shorin Ryu karate. It was developed hundreds of years ago. These forms and techniques have passed down from sensei (teacher) to deshi (student) in an unbroken direct lineage. 80% of all karate systems in the world today were derived from Okinawan Shorin Ryu karate. This system of karate uses both hands and feet evenly for a well rounded self defense system. Okinawan karate is further defined by a profound respect for life. This is manifested by the Okinawan master’s example of humility, patience, and courtesy. While it is easy to describe karate by its physical appearance, it is much more difficult to understand the Okinawan attributes without proper context. We must study Okinawan history and value the depth of its rich culture.

OUR DOJO
The San Francisco Shorin Ryu Shorin Kan Okinawan Karate and Kobudo Dojo was founded in 1992. We continue to grow into a unique karate community. We have deep roots in Okinawa. We belong to the Shorin Ryu Shorin Kan Kyukai, A strong national karate organization. We take the best customs of Okinawan karate to create an environment of learning and hard work. We use a minimum of structure and little regermentation. The focus is self-defense and extracting the principles from the kata.We de-emphasis rank. In fact we have only three color obi (belt); white, brown and black. We fully understand that karate gives you back exactly what you put into it. We practice karate as a lifetime of effort.

WHO CAN LEARN KARATE
Adults and young people fifthteen and over may apply for instruction. We do not accept children at this time. Beginners may start training between September First though the end of November. Those with a minimum of one year of karate experience may apply at any time.

GETTING STARTED
In your decision to train at this or another dojo, the most important issue will be your relationship with the sensei. You must feel good with what you are taught, with the way you are taught and how you are treated. In return there must be mutual respect and you must train with passion. Come by the dojo any time during classes and observe and ask questions. Visit other martial arts schools so that you can compare. I can make some suggestions according to your goals.

THE INSTRUCTOR
The chief instructor of the San Francisco Shorin Ryu Shorin Kan Okinawa Karate and Kobudo Dojo is Sensei Sam Ahtye. He has been practicing since 1967. He started his first Dojo in 1975. Sensei Ahtye is the direct student of some of the greatest martial artist in the world. He is privileged to walk in the footsteps of legendary instructors like Master Clarence Lee. During this eight year relationship, Master Lee instilled his love of hard training and kata. Sensei Ahtye also studied Traditional Chinese Martial Arts with Master Kwan Sai Hung (of “The Wandering Taoist” fame) for four years. He became the teaching assistant to the late Professor William Paul (Kodokan Judo) for nine years. Dr. Paul taught self defense and bio-mechanical efficiency. Since 1995, Sensei Ahtye’s advanced studies have been the responsibility of the eminent Doug Perry of North Carolina. Kyoshi Perry is the North America Director of Shorin Kan Kyoshi Kai.

Sensei Ahtye continues to make frequent trips to Okinawa for further training with Grandmaster Shugoro Nakazato. Sensei Ahtye is a Shihan (licensed instructor) and is currently ranked Renshi 6th Dan.

We practice every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 5pm to 730pm
You may email Sensei Ahtye at :
samahtye@yahoo.com
to confirm current schedule.
Visitors are always welcome. Come by the dojo during classes and observe. Feel Free to ask Questions. All you need to start is a white Gi, a Shorn Kan
Association patch, and a good attitude.

Come join us in learning life protection skills in the study of authentic Okinawan Karate.