The History of Fighting

Hirokazu Kanazawa performing Jion

The origins of the kata Jion (Mercy) is highly debated by scholars of world martial arts. It starts with the left hand covering the right fist, kamae that probably has its roots in Chinese boxing. It is thought to have come through the Tomari-te style of Okinawan karate, however according to the legendary Hirokazu Kanazawa (above), the kata originated in the Chinese Buddhist Jion Temple (where the monks were accomplished martial artists) and then spread to the Tomari region at a later date. Others believe this is not the case and it was simply developed by someone with a connection to the temple however with the name evidence and the kamae, it seems likely that Kanazawa was correct.

More Kata History