Part 1: Miyagi Chōjun – A Journey from Okinawa to Hawaii with Karate Demonstration and Seminars in 1934

Writing: Yannick Schultze
Translation: Sanae Schultze-Nadoyama

A Brief Biography of Miyagi Chōjun‘s Karate Path

Miyagi Chōjun, renowned disciple of Higaonna Kanryō and founder of Gōjū-ryū Karate-dō, was born on April 25, 1888, in Higashi-machi, Naha City. Miyagi began his karate training in 1902 under Higaonna Kanryō (1853-1915) and is said to have remained with his teacher until Higaonna’s death.

However, Miyagi’s karate training under Higaonna was significantly interrupted twice. The first interruption occurred during his military service from 1908 to 1910, during which he had to focus entirely on his duties. The second interruption took place in 1915, when Miyagi visited Fuzhou, China. This journey was aimed at enhancing his skills in karate and Chinese martial arts. According to Miyagi An‘ichi, Higaonna Kanryō had consistently urged Miyagi Chōjun to “travel to China to study martial arts.”

Photo: Miyagi Chōjun (1888-1953)

Journey to Fuzhou and Immersion in Martial Arts Culture

Miyagi Chōjun spent approximately two months in Fuzhou from April to June 1915, deeply immersing himself in the local martial arts culture. After returning from Fuzhou, his master, Higaonna Kanryō, passed away in October 1915, just a few months later.

Following his master’s death, Miyagi returned to Fuzhou in 1917, this time accompanied by Go Kenki (chin. Wú Xián Guì), a Chinese tea merchant. During this stay, it is believed that Miyagi encountered the Bubishi, a classic Chinese martial arts manual, likely with the assistance of Go Kenki.

Miyagi dedicated the rest of his life to deepening his understanding of karate. He read extensively and conducted wide-ranging research. He once told his second daughter, Kojō Yasuko, that he intended to publish a book summarizing his knowledge of karate. Unfortunately, the draft of that “karate book” remained unfinished due to the impact of Pacific War, and the research materials he had collected were lost to the ravages of war.

Miyagi’s Initiatives to Spread Karate Overseas

Between 1917 and 1934, Miyagi Chōjun dedicated himself to promoting karate in Taiwan and mainland Japan. After the First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895), Taiwan became a Japanese territory, and travel to Taiwan during that time did not require any passport. Miyagi’s first demonstrations and lectures on karate in the United States took place in Hawaii, marking the beginning of his efforts to spread karate internationally.

This group photo was taken between June and October 1930. From Left: Kinjō Chin‘ei and Yamashiro Seichū, Center: Miyagi Chōjun, From Right: Tokunaga Seishō. (Photo courtesy of the Hawaii Karate Museum)

The Connection Between the Yōen Jihō Newspaper Company and Okinawan Karateka

The journeys of Yabu Kentsū to Hawaii (as detailed in the November 2024 issue of “Gekkan Hiden”) and Miyagi Chōjun‘s trip to the islands were realized through their connection with the Yōen Jihō Newspaper Company. During Yabu’s visit to Hawaii, his contact was Higa Seikan (born as Higa Gashū and later renamed Seikan). Higa published the Yōen Jihō between 1926 and 1928. After Higa’s tenure, Kinjō Chin‘ei succeeded him as editor.

In 1930, Kinjō briefly returned to Japan from June to October and met with Miyagi Chōjun, Yamashiro Seichū and Tokunaga Seishō (as shown in the photo). It is believed that during this time, Kinjō invited Miyagi to Hawaii, likely requesting that he conduct karate demonstrations and seminars. According to Higaonna Morio, Gōjū-ryū students in Okinawa organized a fundraising campaign to cover Miyagi’s travel expenses to Hawaii.

However, Japanese nationals faced significant challenges when attempting to enter Hawaii at that time. For instance, when Motobu Chōki attempted to enter Hawaii in March 1932, his “Travel Purpose Authority” was marked as “Karate-jutsu Instructor,” but the Hawaiian immigration authorities denied him entry. He was quarantined for a month before being deported back to Japan.

Whereas Miyagi Chōjun applied for his travel purpose as “Karate Instructor” on July 27, 1933, and later as “Karate Popularization” on February 8, 1934.

The difficulties in entering the United States during this period were largely due to the rising anti-Asian sentiment. The Immigration Act of 1924, commonly known as the Japanese Exclusion Act, severely restricted immigration from Japan and other Asian countries. Additionally, the impact of the Great Depression led to stricter entry requirements for individuals engaged in unstable occupations.

Preparing for Departure

Having received the invitation, Miyagi Chōjun likely discussed his plans with Yabu Kentsū, using Yabu’s activities during his stay in Hawaii as a reference. It is believed that Miyagi decided to follow Yabu’s example by visiting four of the Hawaiian Islands. Besides Yabu, Miyagi, and Motobu, records indicate that in 1933, Higaonna Kamesuke and Mutsu Mizuho, who were sent by Tōkyō Imperial University, also visited Hawaii.

While it is true that karate existed in Hawaii before Miyagi’s arrival, it was not known in the form of Naha-te or Gōjū-ryū. Notably, Miyagi’s karate was named “Gōjū-ryū” only about three and a half years before his journey to Hawaii.

Before departing for Hawaii, Miyagi published a farewell message in the Ryūkyū Shinpō on April 18, 1934.

Miyagi Chōjun Embarks on a Karate Journey to Hawaii
Departure Today

The renowned karate shihan, Miyagi Chōjun, had initially planned to travel to Hawaii last October at the invitation of the Hawaiian Yōen Jihō Newspaper Company. However, due to illness and other unforeseen circumstances, his departure was delayed. Now, having recovered, he is finally set to depart today on the Tainan Maru, and on the 26th [April], he will set sail from Yokohama on the Tatsuta Maru bound for Hawaii. Miyagi plans to stay in Hawaii for six months, during which he will tour various locations, give lectures on karate, conduct demonstrations, and introduce this martial art, a source of pride for Okinawa, to a foreign audience.

Announcement

Due to an invitation from the Hawaiian Yōen Jihō Newspaper Company, I was scheduled to travel to Hawaii last autumn. I was deeply moved by the farewell party organized by my seniors and friends in anticipation of this journey. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, including illness in my family, my departure was delayed, causing concern among many. I am now departing today on the Tainan Maru and will set sail for Hawaii on the 26th from Yokohama aboard the Tatsuta Maru. Although I would have preferred to personally visit each of you to bid farewell, I must convey my greetings in this manner due to the urgency of my preparations.

Miyagi Chōjun     To my esteemed acquaintances

Photo: Tatsuta Maru Floating at Yokohama Port

Miyagi Chōjun‘s Arrival in Hawaii

On April 26, 1934, the day after his 46th birthday, Miyagi Chōjun boarded the Tatsuta Maru in Yokohama. The ship’s final destination was Honolulu, Hawaii, where it arrived safely on May 3, 1934. Miyagi underwent a two-day quarantine upon arrival.

Local news immediately reported the arrival of Miyagi Chōjun, a prominent figure in Okinawan karate. Information about him quickly reached the Okinawan community in Hawaii. After his arrival, Miyagi was interviewed by the Hawaii Hōchi, where he discussed his karate background and shared insights about his time in Fuzhou and his teacher, Higaonna Kanryō.

The Authority in the World of Karate-jutsu
The Biography of Miyagi Chōjun
“I would like to teach karate to the second generation in Hawaii…”

On the 3rd, Mr. Miyagi Chōjun, Head of the Karate Department of Okinawa Prefecture, arrived in Hawaii aboard the Tatsuta Maru.

This morning, Mr. Miyagi visited our headquarters, guided by Mr. Kinjō Chin’ei of the Yōen Jihō [Newspaper] Company, and Pioneer missionary Tamayose [Hōun] and Yosemori [Chirō]. The purpose of his visit to Hawaii is twofold: first, to teach karate-jutsu to the second society audience in Hawaii, and secondly, to conduct a comparative study between karate-jutsu and boxing. Mr. Miyagi came to Hawaii upon the invitation of the Yōen Jihō [Newspaper] Company of Kauai Island. While here, a lecture event is scheduled to take place on Saturday evening, and next Monday, he is expected to travel to Kauai Island.

Short CV

Mr. Miyagi is a karate instructor at the Okinawa Prefecture Physical Education Association. In terms of the profound essence and core of the field of karate, there is no one within the prefecture who surpasses him. His reputation has become so widespread that there is no place in Okinawa where karate exists that does not have a connection to him. Before traveling to Hawaii, he conducted a one-week training course in March [1934], sponsored by the Okinawa branch of the Dai Nippon Butokukai.

In 1902 (Meiji 35), he began training under the renowned Chinese’s martial arts master, Higaonna Kanryō sensei, and through superhuman effort, he pursued the profound essence of this field until October 1915 (Taishō 4). He visited Fuzhou, China, twice in May 1915 and July 1917 (Taishō 6). to inspect and research Chainese martial arts in their place of origin.

From August 1923 (Taishō 12) to April 1923 (Taishō 12), He served as a karate instructor on commission at the Okinawa Prefecture Police Training Institute. *

In 1926 (Taishō 15), to reform and unify karate, he gathered like-minded colleagues and established the Okinawa Karate-jutsu Research Club in Wakasa-chō, Naha. He was involved in guiding the younger generation of teachers and students. In July 1926, he served on commission as a karate instructor at the first martial arts training seminar organized by the Okinawa Committee of the Dai Nippon Butokukai. In October 1928 (Shōwa 3), he was invited to serve as a karate instructor for the Jūdō Department at Kyōto Imperial University.

In April 1929 (Shōwa 4), he served as a part-time martial arts teacher at Naha City Commercial School and at the Okinawa Prefecture Police Training Institute. From November 1930 (Shōwa 5) until today, he has been appointed as a karate instructor for the Okinawa Prefecture Physical Education Association.

In June 1932 (Shōwa 7), he was invited by the Kansai University Karate Club in Ōsaka to provide karate instruction. In May 1932, at the urgent request of various kenpō departments of educational institutes and boxing clubs in Tōkyō, he conducted lectures and demonstrations of karate. In addition to the above-mentioned activities, he managed his own dōjō, training numerous young students, and provided instruction for individuals and groups through out-of-town engagements.

Source: Hawaii Hōchi, May 7, 1934

*Note: There is a mistake in the dates in this section. It was from August 1922 (Taishō 11) to April 1923 (Taishō 12), He served as a karate instructor on commission at the Okinawa Prefecture Police Training Institute.

Miyagi Chōjun’s first trip to Hawaii became a significant milestone in the international spread of Okinawan karate. During his stay, he engaged with the local community and widely introduced karate techniques. This journey solidified his achievements as a Gōjū-ryū karate shihan and provided him with the opportunity to learn about other martial arts that were known in Hawaii at the time, such as Filipino martial arts.

Voyage Across the Islands: Miyagi Chōjun’s Journey to Hawaii

Note: Miyagi Chōjun’s itinerary can be partially traced through reports, but a comprehensive investigation of contemporary publications such as Yōen Jihō newspaper (published from Kauai) and Hawaii Hōchi (published also from Hawaii Island) was not completed. Therefore, the reconstruction of his journey remains incomplete. The map below outlines the routes Miyagi is confirmed to have traveled within the limits of available information.

Arrival in Oahu

Departing from Yokohama Port, Miyagi Chōjun arrived in Honolulu on May 3, 1934. The Nippu Jiji newspaper reported on Miyagi’s arrival with an interview conducted shortly after he landed:

Karate, the Number One (unrivaled) from Okinawa’s Amateur Sports Association: Mr. Miyagi will hold lectures and training sessions at various locations

Miyagi Chōjun, the foremost authority on karate in its homeland of Okinawa and a director of the Okinawa Prefectural Physical Association as well as a standing member of the Okinawa branch of the Dai Nippon Butokukai, has arrived in Hawaii on the Tatsuta Maru on the 3rd, as previously reported, at the invitation of the Yōen Jiho Newspaper Company of Kauai. It has been over thirty years since he began practicing karate under the late master Higaonna Kanryō, one of the pioneers of karate. He is now deeply involved in mentoring the next generation of students, and he is regarded as a leading authority, embodying the essence of the karate tradition. During his stay in Hawaii, he plans to give lectures and training sessions across various islands, starting with a lecture at Y.M.B.A. hall. (Photo shows Miyagi)

Source: The Nippu Jiji, May 7, 1934

The Announcement of Karate Lecture Published on May 10, 1934

from “The Nippu Jiji“, published on May 11, 1934

Miyagi Chōjun’s Karate Demonstration
Experience the remarkable techniques of self-defense Kenpō
To be held tomorrow evening at Y.M.B.A. hall

Miyagi Chōjun, who is regarded as a treasure of the Okinawan karate world, will give a karate lecture and demonstration tomorrow, Saturday, at 7:30 PM at the Y.M.B.A. Hall, organized by the Naha Community Association and the Karate Youth Association (Karate Seinen-kai). Last eveing, I attended a welcome party for Mr. Miyagi at the Pan-Pacific Club, where he was requested to give a brief demonstration. When he performed one of his unique basic exercises, ‘Tenshō,’ his breathing was so intense it seemed to summon clouds and raise the wind. The atmosphere was so powerful that the entire audience felt chills, with goosebumps forming on their skin. It is rare to find a martial art as scientifically advanced as Kūshu [くうしゅ 空手] in both self-defense and offensive techniques. Jūdō is now recognized worldwide as a self-defense art, but even Jūdō practitioners must acknowledge that there is much to learn from Karate.

It seemed fitting to me that the Kōdōkan officially recognized Karate as one of its departments at the end of last year. Last eveing’s attendees, after witnessing just a few minutes of the demonstration and hearing the explanations, felt the mystery of Karate-dō and found their limbs stiffened in awe. Everyone agreed that the performance of a true master is indeed different. Tomorrow eveing’s demonstration is recommended not only for those involved in martial arts but also for anyone curious to understand what Karate is, including women. The attendance fee is a mere 25 cents to cover the costs.

The program is as follows:

• Yobi Undō (Preparatory Exercises)
• Kihon Kata (1) Sanchin, (2) Tenshō
• Explanation of Hojo Undō
• Kaishu Kata (1) Seisan, (2) Seipai
• Demonstration and Explanation of Kihon-Kata and Kaishū-Kata

A Grand Welcome Reception

The welcome reception for Miyagi shihan was held last evining at the Pan-Pacific, organized by the Naha Community Association, the Karate Youth Association, and other volunteers. About sixty people attended, with Mr. Tajima Chōmei acting as the master of ceremonies. The event began with an introduction of Miyagi shihan by Mr. Kaneshiro Reiso [Kinjō Chin’ei], manager of the Yōen Jihō Newspaper Company, followed by welcome speeches from Mr. Tamayose Hōun and Mr. Yosemori Chirō. Miyagi shihan then gave a speech of thanks and a demonstration, after which Dr. Uesato led the group in a hearty three cheers of “Banzai” for Miyagi shihan. The event concluded on a high note. In his speech, Miyagi shihan expressed his aspiration to study boxing and develop  ‘Tōyō kenpō’ (Oriental Kenpō).

As indicated by the articles, karate was not widely recognized as a Japanese martial art at the time. It was reported in Hawaii as being “officially recognized as a Japanese martial art” through its association with the Kōdōkan. Additionally, the participation fee at that time was the cost of watching a movie in a theater today.

Moreover, on May 13, 1934, at 2:00 PM, the Waiahau Okinawan Association hosted an event where Miyagi expounded on the origins of “Gōjū-ryū Karate-dō,” and further gave a lecture and demonstration, making it easy for attendees to understand what karate was. This was reported by the Hawaii Hōchi.

After completing these karate lectures, Miyagi temporarily left Oahu and headed towards Kauai.

Visit to Kauai Island

Miyagi arrived on Kauai on the early morning of May 15. It was reported that he was scheduled to conduct demonstrations and lectures on Japanese martial arts for about a month under various organizations such as the Ele’ele Butokukai, Kalaheo Seibukan 成武館, Koloa Yōbukan 養武館, and the Lihue Y.M.B.A. Jūdō Club, as well as the Kauai United Okinawa Association. During his visit, a welcome reception for Miyagi was hosted by the Kauai Okinawan Association on May 20. Subsequently, he traveled around Kauai to give lectures and demonstrations.

Kauai Police Officers and Karate:

Demonstration and Explanation by Miyagi shihan

At the request of Kauai County Police Chief Rice, a demonstration of Karate by Miyagi shihan was conducted at 2:00 PM on the 28th at the Lihue National Guard Armory. All police officers from Kauai were summoned to observe the demonstration, which showcased the power of offensive and defensive techniques. Various explanations were provided through the interpreter, Officer Takitani. A second demonstration is expected to take place soon.

Source: Hawaii Hōchi, May 30, 1934

After completing these memorable visits, Miyagi Chōjun departed Kauai on July 1, 1934, and returned to Oahu.

Return to Oahu Island

Karate Shihan, Miyagi Chōjun Arrives on the Island

Miyagi Chōjun, the renowned shihan of karate invited by the Kauai-based Yōen Jihō Newspaper Company, is currently touring Oahu, where he is giving lectures and demonstrations. Later this month, he is scheduled to visit Maui to conduct karate lectures and training sessions. Kinjō Chin‘ei from Yōen Jihō Newspaper Company will accompany him.

Source: Maui Shinbun, August 17, 1934

Miyagi is believed to have stayed on Oahu until late August, but there is little record confirming this. However, a commemorative photo titled “Miyagi Chōjun Karate Seminar Commemorative Photo” was taken with Miyagi Chōjun prominently in the center against a backdrop of beautiful scenery. (See the photo for reference.)

The commemorative photo of Miyagi Chōjun’s Karate seminar was taken on July 29, 1934, on Oahu Island. (Photo courtesy of the Hawaii Karate Museum)

Stay on Hawaii Island (Big Island)

The originally scheduled visit by Miyagi to Maui has been changed, and it is reported that he has proceeded from Oahu, where he was staying, to the Big Island of Hawaii.

Miyagi shihan Delayed

As previously reported, Miyagi Chōjun shihan, the renowned karate expert, was expected to arrive on the island soon. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, he has had to travel to Hawaii island (Big Island) first, resulting in his visit to Maui being postponed for the time being.

Source: Maui Shinbun, August 24, 1934

The exact dates of Miyagi’s stay on Big Island are not clear, like those on Oahu. However, it is known that Miyagi stayed on Big Island from late August to early September, and then moved to Maui by ferry on November 22.

Stay on Maui Island

Miyagi Chōjun arrived on Maui on November 22, 1934. Although his initial plan was to visit in early September, the schedule was changed, and he visited Big Island first. Subsequently, he traveled to Maui by ferry from Hilo. As with his visits to Kauai, Oahu, and Hawaii Island, Miyagi is said to have made rounds of greetings with Kinjō Chin‘ei in various areas of Maui.

The following is an article announcing Miyagi’s move from Big Island to Maui.

Yōen Jihō’s Mr. Kinjō Arrives on the Island

As previously reported in this publication, Miyagi Chōjun, a renowned karate shihan from Okinawa, is currently promoting karate on the island of Hawai’i. It has been decided that he will return from Hilo to this island tonight. Mr. Kinjō Chin’ei, the manager of the Yōen Jihō Newspaper Company on Kaua’i, who invited Miyagi to Hawai’i, arrived on the island yesterday to meet with him. After Miyagi’s arrival, a program will be arranged, and they plan to promote karate in various locations across the island. Mr. Kinjō is also expected to stay on the island for a while.

Source: Maui Shinbun, November 20, 1934

On Maui, a welcome party for Miyagi Chōjun was held on November 25 at the Paia Community Hall, organized by the local Okinawan community. After the welcome party, Miyagi gave a karate demonstration and lecture and mentioned that he would be staying on Maui for the remainder of the year. He announced that he would conduct a karate seminar starting from November 26 for one week.

According to a report from December 7, 1934, it was announced that a public karate lecture and demonstration would be held on December 9, inviting general visitors. (See the article below for details.)

Lecture and Demonstration of “Karate”

As previously reported, a lecture and demonstration on karate by Okinawan shihan Miyagi Chōjun, who is currently staying on the island, will be held the day after tomorrow, Saturday the 9th, starting at 7:00 PM at Wailuku School. It encourage the general public to attend.

Karate is an art that can be easily used for both self-defense and attack. During the demonstration, Miyagi-sensei will provide a breakdown and explanation of preparatory exercises, basic forms, Sanchin, Tenshō-Kata, Kaishu-Kata, and other techniques. The event is organized by volunteers from the Okinawan community, with sponsorship from the Yōen Jihō Newspaper Company and the Shinjidai-sha [New Era – A Maui published newspaper by Okinawans].

Source: Maui Shinbun, December 7, 1934

On December 28, 1934, at 2:00 PM, a lecture will be held at Dr. Yamashiro’s residence. Unlike the public lecture held on December 9, this event will take place at a private home. It is likely that this seminar was intended for the local affluent and influential individuals.

Invitation from Mr. Yamashiro

Mr. Yamashiro has extended an invitation to host a lecture on karate with the esteemed Okinawan karate authority, Miyagi Chōjun, who is currently visiting the island. The lecture is scheduled to be held at Dr. Yamashiro’s residence in Wailuku on the 28th at 2 PM.

Source: Maui Shinbun, December 25, 1934

Returning to Oahu and Preparing for Departure

Miyagi, having completed his long journey, prepared to return home. A farewell party for Miyagi Chōjun was held simultaneously with the New Year’s party organized by the Naha City Community Association.

Naha City Community Association

The Naha City Community Association plans to hold a New Year’s gathering combined with a farewell party for karate shihan Miyagi Chōjun at the home of Chairman Tamayose on Sunday the 13th at 3 p.m., located on Maunakea Street.

Source: Hawaii Hōchi, January 9, 1935

As Miyagi prepared to return to Japan, a message expressing his gratitude and farewell words was also published.

Farewell

I would like to express my deepest gratitude for the many courtesies and assistance I have received from various parties since my arrival here last year. Having completed my duties, I will be returning to Japan today aboard the Tatsuta Maru. I am profoundly grateful for the generous farewell gifts and the warm send-off you have given me. Once again, I extend my heartfelt thanks. In closing, I pray for the continued health and prosperity of you all.

Karate Instructor
Miyagi Chōjun
To All Organizations,
And to All Respected Individuals with Whom I Have the Honor of Acquaintance.

Source: The Nippu Jiji, January 15, 1935

On January 27, 1935, by way of the Tatsuta Maru, Miyagi Chōjun safely returned to Kōbe Port, Japan.

Discovery of a Lost Masterpiece

In April 2024, the Okinawa Prefectural Library made a historic announcement regarding the discovery of a long-lost book.

The book in question, Hawaiian Okinawan Immigration History (布哇沖縄県人発展史), was published in 1941 and had been thought lost for many years. Miraculously, a single surviving copy was found at the Wakayama City Library. The author of this book is Oyadomari Giryō, and it was edited by the Kauai Okinawa Association.

According to research conducted by librarian Hara Hiroaki, Oyadomari, a native of Ya’ese-chō  Kochinda Yonagusuku in Okinawa, was a first-generation Japanese immigrant in Hawaii. He worked as a newspaper reporter on Kauai and spent over a year compiling this valuable research on the life and struggles of Okinawan immigrants across Hawaii.

The book documents the lives and hardships of Okinawan immigrants in Hawaii and was printed in Tōkyō in January 1941, with publication on August 1 of the same year. However, on August 2, 1941, the U.S. government implemented restrictions on Japanese commercial vessels entering the U.S., significantly hindering the book’s transportation to Hawaii. The book was temporarily held in a warehouse in Yokohama, waiting to be shipped but was ultimately destroyed in an air raid.

However, just before the worsening of the Pacific War, it was confirmed by Oyadomari’s acquaintance, Higa Tarō, that three copies had been separately mailed to Hawaii. It remains uncertain whether these copies safely arrived in Hawaii.

In a press conference, librarian Hara emphasized the significance of the discovery, stating, “The publication itself is miraculous. It will transform the study of Okinawan immigration to Hawaii. This is an extremely important resource.” The book represents a breakthrough in the historical research of Okinawan immigrants and is the only surviving copy of its kind. It serves as a crucial resource for understanding the history of immigration to Hawaii.

Additionally, the Okinawa Times reported that Hara traveled to Hawaii in February 2024 to donate a replica of the book to the University of Hawaii and the Hawaii State Library. He also visited Oyadomari’s son, James (93), who resides on Kauai.

The source of the photo is Hawaiian Okinawan Immigration History

Newly Discovered Photo of Miyagi Chōjun

A newly discovered photo of Miyagi Chōjun, previously unknown, has been published in a recent book. I had a friend clean the photo, removing the white spots that were present on the original. The cleaned photo reveals Miyagi Chōjun seated prominently in the center.

This image has already been shared within the international karate community through social media and has prompted various comments and doubts. Many people question whether the person in the photo Miyagi Chōjun is indeed. The primary reason for skepticism is that this photo shows Miyagi with a noticeably fuller figure compared to other known images, making it difficult to recognize him at first glance. It is possible that during his stay in Hawaii, Miyagi was well taken care of as a guest, which may have contributed to his changed appearance. Additionally, the presence of a mustache, which differs from his usual appearance, could be another factor causing the confusion.

However, the book Hawaiian Okinawan Immigration History identifies the person in the photo as Miyagi Chōjun.

It has been confirmed through local Japanese-language newspapers that Miyagi did not conduct karate seminars every day during his trip. He was often invited by local influential figures and community organizations, spending time enjoying meals and giving lectures on karate.

Details about the other people in the photo remain unclear, but it is likely that the photo was taken with Miyagi’s hosts shortly before his departure.

References:

• Hawaiian Okinawan Community Development History, Kauai Okinawan Association, Kauai Okinawan Association, published in 1941.

• KARATE’S History and Traditions REVISED EDITION, Bruce A. Haines, Charles E. Tuttle Publishing Co., Inc., published in 1968.

• Chojun Miyagi’s 1934 Visit To Hawaii, Dragon Times Volume 17, Charles Goodin, Dragon Times Magazine, publication date unknown.

• History of Gōjū-ryū Karate: The Two Great Masters, Higaonna Kanryō and Miyagi Chōjun, by Higaonna Morio, Champ, published in 2001.

• Karate: Its History and Techniques, by Koyama Masashi, Wada Kōji, and Kadekaru Tōru, Baseball Magazine Co., Ltd., published in 2020.

• Discovery of the Lost Okinawan-Hawaii Immigration History: The Only Existing Copy, Published in 1941, Was Thought to Have Been Destroyed in Air Raids; Okinawa Prefectural Library: ‘The Footprints of the First-Generation Immigrants Clearly Revealed'”, Okinawa Times, April 20, 2024.