In 1965, having gained much experience and respect as a karate-ka, kobudo expert and competitor, Fumio Demura sensei left Japan to become the chief instructor of the USA branch of Itosu-Kai. Settling in California Demura sensei began teaching at several universities and colleges as well as regularly demonstrating his skills at the Japan Village & Deer Park, Buena Park, California.

In 1971 Demura sensei’ first book ‘Shito-Ryu Karate was published and was quickly followed by a number of best selling books on karate and kobudo. In 1975 Fumio Demura was inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame and was awarded ‘Martial artist of the Year’. In 1986 he was awarded his 7th Dan in Shito-Ryu Karate-Do. Continuing his busy schedule as teacher, promoter and author, Demura sensei’ vast knowledge was also called upon to provide technical advise and stunt duties in a number of Hollywood films, notably ‘The Karate Kid’.

In 2001 Demura sensei founded the Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Genbu-Kai. Continuing his gruelling schedule, Demura sensei travels the world teaching the way of budo in its many forms with as much enthusiasm and passion as ever. Now a 9th Dan in Shito-Ryu Karate-Do he has recently been inducted into the World Martial Arts Masters Association Hall of Fame (2006).
Information sourced from www.genbukai.org.