09/06/2026
Meitoku Yagi (1912–2003)
Grand Master of Meibukan Goju-Ryu Karate
Meitoku Yagi was one of the most respected Okinawan karate masters of the 20th century. Born on 6 March 1912 in Naha, Okinawa, he became a direct student of Chojun Miyagi, the founder of Goju-Ryu Karate. Yagi dedicated more than seven decades of his life to preserving and teaching traditional Okinawan karate.
He began training under Chojun Miyagi in 1927 while still a teenager. Through exceptional dedication and discipline, he mastered the complete Goju-Ryu curriculum and eventually became one of Miyagi's closest students.
Major Achievements
Founder of Meibukan Goju-Ryu Karate (1952)
Direct disciple and recognized successor of Chojun Miyagi
Dedicated his life to preserving authentic Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate
Developed the famous Meibuken kata series, including Tenchi, Seiryu, Byakko, Suzaku, and Genbu
Helped spread Okinawan karate throughout Japan, Europe, the Americas, and many other regions
Recognized for his contributions to martial arts and Okinawan cultural heritage.
Final Years and Passing
Even in his nineties, Meitoku Yagi continued teaching and performing karate demonstrations, inspiring generations of martial artists worldwide. In late 2002, despite his advanced age, he remained active in promoting traditional karate.
On 7 February 2003, Grand Master Meitoku Yagi passed away at the age of 90. His death marked the end of an extraordinary era in Okinawan karate history, but his teachings continue through the International Meibukan Goju-Ryu Karate Association and thousands of students around the world.
In Memory of Meitoku Yagi
> "A true master does not seek glory.
He preserves tradition, teaches with humility,
and leaves a legacy that lives forever."
Meitoku Yagi
6 March 1912 – 7 February 2003
Founder of Meibukan Goju-Ryu Karate
A Guardian of Okinawan Martial Arts Legacy 🥋🕊️