Kosho Shorei Ryu Kempo
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Kosho Shorei Ryu Kenpō is a system of Kenpō based upon the teachings of James Mitose. Mitose is credited as the man who originally brought Kenpō of Japanese origin to Hawaii before it was the 50th State.[citation needed] However, the term "Kenpō" is much akin to saying "martial art"- in that it refers to hundreds of separate styles or systems of martial arts, many now with relatively little connection or similarity among them.
Kosho Shorei Ryu Kenpō means "Old Pine Tree Encouragement School Law of the Fist." This literal translation refers to the ancient "densho", or legend, of this particular school. One prominent organization of Kosho Shorei Ryu Kempo today is the Sei Kosho Shorei Kai International, out of Sacramento, California.[1] This organization was founded and is headed by Bruce Juchnik, who learned from Mitose towards the end of Mitose's life while he was incarcerated in Folsom Prison. Mitose died in 1981.
The current Sōke of Kosho Shorei Ryu is under dispute by both Thomas Mitose, James Mitose's son, and Bruce Juchnik, one of James Mitose's final students. Each claims that James Mitose named him his successor prior to his death. James Mitose stated to his son, "unless one comes from the blood line of a Grandmaster they will never have full knowledge of that art."[2] Traditionally, Kosho Shorei Ryu was passed on through the bloodline,[2] and Thomas is the only claimant bearing the Mitose name.
Kosho Shorei Ryu Kempo is, in a sense, an eclectic study. Much of the martial practice is based upon principle, concept, and philosophical understanding, largely based upon the teachings of Zen Buddhism. The martial practices of the art do not limit one to any particular discipline but instead stress adherence to what is termed as "Natural Law."
Mitose lived in Hawai'i (pre-statehood) until around the age of four, and then went back to Japan (thought to be in October, 1920) to study the family art of Kosho-Shorei Kenpō. He was taught by, among others, his grandfather Sukuhei and his uncle, legendary karateka Choki Motobu.
Mitose returned to Hawai'i on February 23, 1937. The day after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Mitose joined the Hawai'i Territorial Guard. The Guard was disbanded in 1942. Mitose then opened his school, calling it the "Office Self-Defense Club." Mitose taught his art to the public, including members of the American Military.
In 1953, Mitose retired from teaching and gave the art to Thomas Young, one of his original black belts.
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