Ryu Ryu Kyo (1852-1930) - a somewhat-mysterious gung-fu master from Fujian Province. Most likely he was a shoemaker by trade. He learned from the White Crane and/or Monk Fist Boxing master Pan Yuba (Xie Zhongxiang in Chinese).

Higashionna Kanryo (1853-1915) - an Okinawan martial artist who travelled to Fuzhou, China, where he studied probably several gung-fu styles from 1873 to 1885. Upon his return home, he integrated his knowledge with Okinawa te to form the basis of modern Goju Ryu karate.

Miyagi Chojun (1888-1953) - a senior student of Higashionna-sensei who invented the gekisai and tensho kata, and systematized Goju-Ryu into its present form. Miyagi-sensei was a martial artist of incredible skill, power, and humility. He promulgated karate in mainland Japan and Hawaii.

Higa Seiko (1898-1966) - senior student of Miyagi-sensei, who while a teenager also studied with Higashionna-sensei.

Higa Seikichi (d. 1999) - son of Higa Seiko and a renowned Goju-Ryu teacher his his own right.

Gima Shinjo (?) - an ancestor of Matayoshi Shinko. Sometime during history, the "Gima" family name changed to "Matayoshi".

Matayoshi Shinko (1888-1945) - studied weaponry and gung-fu extensively in China. Lived for three years with a gang of Manchurian mounted bandits!

Matayoshi Shinpo (1921-1997) - the acknowledged 21st-generation master of his family kobudo style, as well as master of several karate styles including the rare Kingai Ryu (Golden Bird style). He was designated a Living National Treasure by the Japanese emperor.

Seiko Kina (October 3, 1911 - 1994)

Toguchi Seikichi: (May 1917 - August 31, 1998)

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