Shirai Hiroshi Sensei has passed away

Hiroshi Shirai was a renowned Japanese Shotokan karate master, born on July 31, 1937, in Nagasaki, Japan. He began practicing karate in 1956 and quickly gained recognition for his skill. In 1962, he won both kata and kumite championships of the Japan Karate Association (JKA), earning the title of "Grand Champion." Shirai was deeply influenced by prominent figures in karate such as Masatoshi Nakayama and Hidetaka Nishiyama.

In 1965, Shirai moved to Milan, Italy, where he played a crucial role in promoting and teaching Shotokan karate across Europe. He is known for emphasizing the self-defense aspect of karate, which he called "Goshindo." In 2011, he was awarded the 10th dan by the Italian Traditional Karate Association (FIKTA), further solidifying his legacy.

Shirai passed away yersterday, Oct, 9 - 2024, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as one of the most influential karate masters in modern history​.