Motokatsu Inoue

Motokatsu Inoue (1918–1993) was a Japanese martial artist known for his expertise in traditional martial arts disciplines. He held the titles of Grandmaster of Yui Shin Kai and Ryukyu Kobujutsu. Inoue was the first individual to be awarded the rank of 'Hanshi' (Menkyo Kaiden) by Taira Shinken.

Inoue was born in Tokyo in 1918. His family background includes his father, who was a general, and his grandfather was Katsura Taro, a former prime minister of Japan. His early exposure to martial arts was through training with the security specialist at his family residence, Soke Seiko Fujita (1898–1966). Fujita was the headmaster of Kōga-ryū Ninjutsu and is regarded as the last authentic Ninja.

Throughout his development, Inoue studied under prominent martial arts masters, including Yasuhiro Konishi and Taira Shinken. His education encompassed the practice of Ryūkyū Kobujutsu, specifically its weapon systems, with affiliation to the Hozon Shinkokai, an organization dedicated to the preservation of Okinawan Kobudo techniques.

Inoue founded Yui Shin Kai, a style of karate that reflects his synthesis of traditional techniques. His contributions to martial arts extended beyond practice; he produced writings on Kobudo kata, including pamphlets and a comprehensive three-volume set. These publications, primarily in Japanese, serve as instructional texts on traditional weapon forms. Some of his work was later translated and published in English.

Motokatsu Inoue's career was characterized by a dedication to preserving and disseminating traditional martial arts, emphasizing rooted practice and historical techniques.