Ryukyu Shimbukan
Ryukyu Kobudo Shimbukan at Karate Academy Sydney
At Karate Academy Sydney (KAS), we are honoured to be affiliated with the Ryukyu Kobudo Shimbukan, a prestigious organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Okinawan weaponry arts. Under the esteemed leadership of Hiroshi Akamine Hanshi, 9th Dan in both Ryukyu Kobudo and Shorin-Ryu Karate, the Shimbukan continues a rich legacy of martial excellence.
A Legacy Rooted in Tradition
The Shimbukan Dojo was established in 1971 by Eisuke Akamine Sensei, a direct student of renowned masters Shinken Taira and Seiichiro Higa. Following Eisuke Akamine’s passing in 1999, his son, Hiroshi Akamine, assumed leadership, continuing the dojo’s mission to uphold the authentic teachings of Ryukyu Kobudo. In 2011, Hiroshi Akamine founded the Ryukyu Kobudo Shimbukan to further this vision, emphasising the importance of traditional weaponry in martial arts practice.
Comprehensive Weaponry Training
Our curriculum encompasses a wide array of traditional Okinawan weapons, including
- Bō (staff)
- Sai (trident)
- Tonfa (side-handle baton)
- Nunchaku (two-section staff)
- Kama (sickle)
- Eku (oar)
- Tinbe-Rochin (shield and short spear)
- Tekko (knuckle duster)
Through disciplined training, students develop not only technical proficiency but also a deep appreciation for the historical and cultural significance of these weapons.
Annual Training Opportunities
To ensure our instruction remains authentic and of the highest standard, our instructors undertake annual training trips to Okinawa. These immersive experiences allow us to train directly under Hiroshi Akamine Hanshi and other senior masters at the Shimbukan Hombu Dojo, deepening our understanding and bringing enriched knowledge back to our students in Sydney.
We are also privileged to host Dell Hamby Kyoshi, 7th Dan Ryukyu Kobudo Shimbukan, who visits our dojo annually. Originally from Switzerland and now residing in Okinawa, Dell Hamby Sensei is a respected instructor and translator within the Shimbukan organisation. His seminars provide our students with invaluable insights into the nuances of Kobudo practice.
For upcoming seminars and events, please check our calendar regularly.
Commitment to Authenticity and Excellence
Our affiliation with the Ryukyu Kobudo Shimbukan ensures that our instruction remains true to the authentic Okinawan traditions. By maintaining this connection, we offer our students a pathway to deepen their martial arts journey, grounded in respect, discipline, and continuous learning.
For more information about Ryukyu Kobudo Shimbukan and upcoming training opportunities, please visit our official website.
accomplishments
Sensei- Instructor
- 3rd Dan Black Belt Goju Ryu Seiwakai
- 3rd Dan Black Belt JKF Goju Kai (All Japan Karate Federation)
- 3rd Dan Black Belt Ryukyu Shimbukan Kobudo
- Senior First Aid
- WWCC
At the young age of 6, Chris embarked on his karate journey in 2007 under the expert tutelage of Pat Drago Shihan, specialising in Goju-Ryu. He honed his skills early on, participating in numerous Koshiki tournaments across locations such as Barrel and Picton.
In 2013, Chris embraced new challenges by joining Seiwakai under Glenn Stephenson Shihan, advancing through inter-club tournaments and gaining valuable competitive experience. His progression through the Dan ranks was guided by Jessica Vetrisano Sensei, whose mentorship has been pivotal in shaping him into the accomplished karateka he is today.
He has competed at the highest levels, qualifying for the JKF (Japanese Karate Federation) World Tournament held in Osaka (2023), Okinawa (2024), and placing top 8 in Sendai (2025)—marks of his elite skill and relentless pursuit of excellence.
In addition to Goju Ryu Karate, Chris has immersed himself in Ryukyu Shimbukan Kobudo under the mentorship of Hiroshi Akamine Kaicho and Dell Hamby Kyoshi, enriching his understanding of traditional Okinawan martial arts.
This year, Chris proudly joined the NSW Karate State Team and competed at the 2025 Karate Australia National Championships in Adelaide, South Australia, where he claimed 3rd place—a remarkable achievement on the national stage.
As a proud member of Karate Australia (the Australian Karate Federation), Chris continues to embody the spirit of the martial art—dedicated, growing, and inspiring.
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The ultimate aim of Karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants- Gichin Funokoshi