Las Vegas Shotokan Karate

Specialties

For over 32 years Las Vegas Shotokan has been teaching kids as young as six and adults as old as eighty-​six the art of Shotokan, a traditional and proven style of Japanese karate. Shotokan karate focuses on essential techniques and applies them to basic forms and fighting situations.

History

Established in 1981.

In 1981, Master Osamu Ozawa who is a direct student of the founder of Shotokan Karate, Master Gichin Funakoshi, founded Las Vegas Shotokan Karate. While alive, Master Ozawa was the most senior Japanese karate instructor residing in the Western world. He received his 8^th degree black belt from Prince Higashikuni, uncle to Emperor Hirohito of Japan. In 1995, Master Ozawa at age 70 turned the school over to Sensei James Tawatao, a student of his since 1981. Master Ozawa passed away in 1998.

Meet the Business Owner

James T.

Business Owner

Born in November 1959 in Baguio City, Philippines. Moved to Las Vegas, Nevada in March 1974. Graduated in 1986 from University of Nevada Reno with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering. Started training in Shotokan Karate under Master Osamu Ozawa in 1981. Became owner and chief instructor of Las Vegas Shotokan Karate in 1995. President of Ozawa Cup International Karate Tournament and Chief Instructor of Ozawa-​Ha Shotokan Karate-​Do Organization. Currently holds the rank of 6^th degree black belt.