The System and Its History

Shinpu-Ren began as a hard-style Okinawan karate that uniquely fuses advanced aerial kicks and Korean combat techniques with the formidable upper body strength of Okinawan Te—and more recently, the effective ground-fighting strategies of mixed martial arts.  This blend of diverse techniques set Shinpu-Ren apart from other hard-style systems, creating a dynamic and effective martial arts discipline.

The system was first introduced to the United States in 1959 by Master (Soke) Yuichi Nakachi, who taught Shinpu-Ren in Seattle, Washington until 1963. That year, Master Nakachi renamed the system Nippon Kenpo Butokukan. After returning to Japan in 1965, he left behind a legacy of martial arts instruction that continued to influence practitioners in the U.S. Master Nakachi passed away in 1998.

The name Shinpu-Ren was later re-established by Hanshi Vance Steele, who originally trained in the system. Separating from the Butokukan system, Hanshi Steele opened his own school and founded the Christian Martial Arts Association. He refined and developed Shinpu-Ren by incorporating training he received from other masters, transforming it into a highly effective martial arts and self-defense system.

Upon Hanshi Steele’s retirement, leadership of the system passed to his highest-ranking student, Hanshi John Kraemer in Aberdeen, Washington. In 2019, Hanshi Kraemer retired and entrusted the management of Shinpu-Ren to Hanshi James Morris, who now serves as the Head Instructor of the system.

With numerous testimonials and experiences from past students, Shinpu-Ren has consistently proven its effectiveness in real-life situations—whether in schools, at home, or on the streets. The system teaches fundamental concepts and principles essential for navigating varying ranges of conflict, drawing from a broad array of martial arts techniques.

The Meaning and History of the Name "Shinpu-Ren"

The name Shinpu-Ren is composed of three kanji characters:

• 神 (Shin): Translates to "mind/heart" or "continuous". It can also mean "Kami," referring to "god," "deity," or "divine."

• 風 (Pu/Kaze): Means "wind" or, in some contexts, "prefecture."

• 連 (Ren): Translates to "speed," "exercise," "train," or "practice," and can also mean "group" or "league."

Therefore, Shinpu-Ren can be translated as "God’s Wind and Speed" or the "League of the Divine Wind."

Historical Significance of "Divine Wind" (Kamikaze)

The term "Kamikaze" (literally "divine wind") is deeply rooted in Japanese history. It refers to two powerful typhoons that, according to legend, protected Japan from Mongol invasions led by Kublai Khan in 1274 and 1281. These storms destroyed the Mongol fleets, preventing successful invasions and were believed to be divine interventions from the sun goddess Amaterasu, symbolizing heavenly protection over Japan.

Cultural and Philosophical Connection

Both the Shinpūren Rebellion and the kamikaze typhoons share themes of divine protection, resistance to foreign influence, and the preservation of traditional values. Although Shinpu-Ren Karate does not have a direct historical connection to these events, the use of the name evokes the spirit of resilience, discipline, and dedication that underpins both the martial arts system and these historical narratives.

While the kamikaze typhoons are traditionally associated with the Kyushu region and not specifically with Okinawa, the broader theme of divine winds protecting Japan remains a central element of Japanese folklore. Similarly, the Shinpūren Rebellion symbolizes the clash between tradition and modernization, a concept reflected in the philosophy of Shinpu-Ren Karate, which honors traditional martial arts while incorporating modern techniques.