Actually, I don’t keep track of the money I’ve spent on all my historic Karate books, as I’ve been collecting them for over 17 years. For example, the Okinawa Karate Kobudō Jiten is currently listed for ¥39,999 (without shipping) as of April 13, 2024. Also, consider the Uechi-ryū Blue book, which typically sells for around ¥100,000 (excluding shipping). These are just two examples; there are many more needed to gain a comprehensive understanding.
Visiting a library, such as the Okinawa Prefecture Library, is free of charge. However, each paper copy costs ¥10. While not prohibitively expensive, serious research requires substantial time beforehand to know what to copy. This preparation can consume a lot of time and detract from a regular vacation trip.
Interviews with Karate Masters are usually free, but transportation to reach them isn’t. If I stay in Naha and want to interview a Karate Master in Chatan or Okinawa City, I need a car or taxi. If I opt for a car, I must translate my overseas driver’s license into Japanese, which incurs both a cost and time investment.
In conclusion, conducting outstanding historic Karate research isn’t free. It requires a significant financial investment. It’s important to remember that when someone offers their time to share information, it should be met with respect. Real researchers invest considerable time and money to acquire the information.
Simply sitting on a chair and typing a few words on a smartphone shouldn’t be mistaken for genuine research; it essentially relies on someone else’s goodwill, without the individual investing their own money.
Karate Kenkyū Shitsu 
It is quite expensive. Also, a lot of skills are necessary, such as language, including specific terminology of karate and kobudo as well as history and culture of Okinawa. A handyman will charge you 100 bucks for just showing up. There is also no funding, be it academic or else, no publishing or research prices to win, and so on. Karate research is rarely appreciated, but we should be aware of our value as „international, private education institutions“ and find ways to support our huge efforts.
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