Wang Ji (汪楫) was a significant Chinese diplomat and martial artist from the 17th century, whose influence is deeply intertwined with the early development of karate, particularly through the creation of a foundational kata.
Born in 1621, Wang Ji’s life spanned the period until 1689. He was a Chinese diplomat who led a substantial ambassadorial mission from the Qing government. This mission arrived in the village of Tomari, Okinawa, in 1683. Beyond his diplomatic duties, Wang Ji was a multifaceted individual, recognised as a poet and a calligrapher, in addition to being a skilled martial artist. In modern Japanese, he is known as Ōshū (汪楫).
Wang Ji practised martial arts within the Shaolin tradition of Fujian White Crane. He is often credited with teaching quanfa (Chinese boxing) to the gentry of Tomari during his time in Okinawa.
His most notable and lasting impact on karate is his credit as the creator of the Wanshū kata. The name “Wanshū” itself carries a dual meaning that links directly to him:
- One interpretation of the name, written as Wanshū (汪輯), means “Wang’s Series (or Form),” directly referring to him.
- Another interpretation, using the characters Wanshū (腕秀), translates to “Excellent Wrist” and highlights a characteristic technique of this form.
The Wanshū kata became a widely adopted form and is practised in numerous karate systems today. These include prominent styles such as Isshin-Ryū, Shotokan (where it is known as Empi), and Wadō-ryū. The kata’s continued practice in diverse karate styles underscores his foundational contribution to martial arts history.
Karate Kata Step By Step 