Yamanaka Sensei is authentically taught and ranked with direct lineage from such great masters as Eiichi Miyazato Sensei (successor to Miyagi Chōjun Sensei) of Okinawa Goju Ryu, Grandmaster David Chong of Shaolin Ch’uan Fa (Kung Fu) (his first teacher dating back to 1962, who ranked him to 10th degree black belt on April 22 2017), Grandmaster Masaru Shintani, who is a descendant of the Founder of Shindo Ryu, Grandmaster Hiro Nori Otsuka (who ranked him to the degree of 9th degree black belt in Shindo Ryu).

He has dedicated his life to the pursuit of truth and building unity around traditional martial artists, founding many international organizations along the way. He proudly directed the Yamanaka Budo Life Centre in Markham with his wife, affectionately known as Mamasan, for over 40 years.

Yamanaka Sensei has taught over 100,00 students in over 22 countries in Classical Martial Arts. He has trained military and police services in Canada, England; Ireland; France; Italy; USA; Israel; Singapore; India; Belgium; Norway; Sweden and Slovenia.

His instructor recognitions include achieving the highest international teaching titles of Renshi, Kyoshi and Hanshi, and is the only recipient in Canada whose teaching title was signed by Prince Naruhiko Higashikuni, (the uncle of the late emperor of Japan) as well as the former minister of foreign affairs in the Parliament of Japan. 

As a Canadian Citizen, he has been recognized by the federal government for his contributions towards the betterment of the community and human rights. He has been honored with the Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilee Awards.

Shihan Ron Yamanaka acts as mentor and guide to our dojo.