The Wado-Ryu(Way of Peace) School of karate, was founded in 1931 by the late Grand Master Hinori Ohtsuka (1892-1982).

Ohtsuka Sensei was already an accomplished master of Jujitsu, Shnido Yoshin Ryu, when Master Gichin Funakoshi introduced Karate in Tokyo, Japan. Master Ohtsuka became interested in Karate in 1922. By 1928, he was Assistant Instructor to Funakoshi Sensei. In 1931, Master Ohtsuka founded the Wado-Ryu style of karate. In 1972, Ohtsuka Sensei was awarded the title Shodai Karate do Meijin Judan(the greatest title possible) from the Imperial Japanese family. This means first generation karate master of the 10th dan; he was the first Japanese (not Okinawan) to make a style of karate in the form of Japanese Budo, thus making it a true Japanese martial art. Master Ohtsuka also recived the Shiju Hooshu medal for his outstanding contributions to sport from the government of Japan. He was the only man ever in the history of karate to be so honoured.

Sensei Tatsuo Suzuki 8th Dan

1928-2011

Professor Tatsuo Suzuki was born in 1928 in Yokohama and developed an interest in karate at the age of 14. Within 6 years of starting Master Suzuki was awarded his 3rd Dan at the age of 19. In 1954 at the age of 24 he was awarded the then highest grade in Wado-Ryu, 5th Dan for his outstanding courage and ability. At 45 he was awarded his 8th Dan and also in the same year was given the title of Hanshi (Master) by the International Budo Federation.

From 1945 - 1956 he received direct instruction from the founder of Wado-Ryu, Hirinori Ohtsuka Sensei. Thereafter as Ohtsuka's most senior student, he travelled with Ohtsuka Sensei both domestically and internationally performing demonstrations and teaching at the Headquarters and in such places as Hawaii.

From 1956 - 1964 Master Suzuki founded the first Wado Federation in England and from his base in London he spread Wado-Ryu throughout Europe. Overcoming many difficulties, he brought senior students from Japan, taught them how to be instructors and sent them to various European countries. Within just a few years Wado-Ryu became the most popular style in Europe. In 1991 Master Suzuki took over from Ohtsuka Sensei in protecting the essence of Wado-Ryu and established the Wado International Karate-Do Federation (WIKF).

In addition to his remarkable accomplishments in Karate, Professor Sensei is a 2nd Dan in Tenshin Kryu Bo-Jitsu (stick fighting) and a 1st Dan in Judo. He has also studied Zen doctrine with the high priests, the late Genpo Yamamoto and Soyen Nakagawa. Suzuki Sensei is also a member of the International Budo Academy (IBA) as n Associate Professor and has been awarded the title Doctor of Philosophy for his life long work and commitment to teaching Wado-Ryu Karate.