Annanko Kata: Light from the South – Kimura Shukokai

Discover the Annanko kata, a dynamic form rooted in Okinawan karate, created by Chotoku Kyan after returning from Taiwan. The name Annanko, meaning “Light from the South” or “Peace from the South,” reflects Taiwan’s historical identity as the “South of China.”  The Annanko series includes three variations—Annanko, Annanku, and Onnanko—sometimes referred to as Annanko Shodan, Nidan, and Sandan, or simplified into Annanko and Annanko Sho in certain styles. Sometimes you see it spelled as “Ananko” and other times “Annanko”. In our opinion ANNANKO is likely most correct. Shihan Kimura pronounced it with a distinctive, drawn-out “Annn-Nanko,” emphasizing its unique character. Watch this performance of the Annanko kata by Shihan Gavin Armstrong, showcasing its fluid movements and rich heritage. Perfect for karate enthusiasts, martial arts students, and those curious about the technique behind many of the moves. 🥋Learn more about our classes at shukokai.com or follow us on social media! 🥋Facebook:   / tenaflyshukokaikarate   🥋Twitter: @ShukokaiUSA 🥋Instagram: tenaflyshukokaikarate 🥋ABOUT SHIHAN GAVIN ARMSTRONG: Shihan Gavin Armstrong began his training in Shukokai Karate in Zimbabwe in 1974, under the instruction of Sensei Des Botes, 5th Dan. He moved to the US in 1979 and in 1981, he moved to New Jersey, where he lived as Uchi-Deshi for over four years. During this time he ran the Dojo and taught classes for Shihan Kimura. Later in the early 1990s he worked for Shihan Kimura as Manager and Chief Instructor of his Tenafly Dojo, for 3.5 years until Shihan Kimura passed away in 1995. From 1996 until present, Shihan Gavin has run his own Dojo in Tenafly, New Jersey. Video Link:    • Annanko Kata: Light from the South – Kimur...   #ShukokaiKarate #GavinArmstrong #AnnankoKata