Toshishiro Obata

Born:20. října 1948

Place of Birth:Gunma Prefecture - Japan

Known For:Acting

Biography

Toshishiro Obata, a true master of the sword, has left an indelible mark on the world of martial arts. Hailing from Japan, he is renowned for his exceptional skills as a tameshigiri champion and an authorized shitoka. His journey into the realm of martial arts began with aikido training under the esteemed Gozo Shioda at the Yoshinkan Honbu Dojo. However, it was his deep dive into various sword arts such as Nakamura-ryu, Ioriken Battojutsu, Toyama-ryu, Yagyu Shinkage-ryu, Kashima Shin-ryu, and Ryukyu Kobudo that truly shaped his expertise.

In 1980, Obata made a significant move to the United States, where he embarked on a mission to share his wealth of knowledge and cultivate his unique sword art. This endeavor led to the establishment of the International Shinkendo Federation in 1990, a pivotal moment that marked the formalization of his teachings. As the revered founder of the school, Obata is affectionately known as Obata Kaiso by his devoted students, who continue to benefit from his wisdom and guidance.

Beyond his role as a martial arts instructor, Obata ventured into the realm of Hollywood in 1986, bringing his formidable skills to the silver screen. His presence in several films added a touch of authenticity and mastery to the action sequences, showcasing his prowess in a new and captivating light. Through his on-screen appearances, Obata not only captivated audiences with his swordsmanship but also introduced a wider audience to the beauty and discipline of Japanese martial arts.

Despite his foray into the world of cinema, Obata remains deeply rooted in his dedication to spreading the art of Shinkendo across the globe. With a network of 80 branches internationally, the International Shinkendo Federation continues to flourish under his guidance, embodying his vision of preserving and promoting the essence of traditional swordsmanship. As Obata travels far and wide to conduct seminars and connect with his students worldwide, his impact on the martial arts community remains profound and enduring.

In the tapestry of martial arts history, Toshishiro Obata's name shines brightly as a beacon of expertise and passion. His commitment to preserving the rich heritage of sword arts and his innovative approach to teaching have solidified his legacy as a true master of the blade. Whether in the dojo, on the silver screen, or in the hearts of his students, Obata's influence continues to resonate, inspiring generations to embrace the artistry and discipline of Shinkendo.

Images

Filmografie

Herectví

Demolition Man

CryoCon

1993

In 1996, brash L.A. detective John Spartan and maniac killer Simon Phoenix are both sentenced to decades in a cryogenic prison as punishment for a rescue mission gone wrong. When Phoenix escapes 36 years later to wreak havoc on the future, Spartan is awakened to capture his nemesis the old-fashioned way.

The Shadow

Mongol

1994

Based on the 1930s comic strip, The Shadow is put up against his archenemy Shiwan Khan, who plans to take over the world by holding a city to ransom using an atom bomb. Using his powers of invisibility and "the power to cloud men's minds", The Shadow comes blazing to the rescue with explosive results.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze

Tatsu

1991

The Turtles and the Shredder battle once again, this time for the last cannister of the ooze that created the Turtles, which Shredder wants to create an army of new mutants.

Showdown in Little Tokyo

Sato

1991

An American with a Japanese upbringing, Chris Kenner is a police officer assigned to the Little Tokyo section of Los Angeles. Kenner is partnered with Johnny Murata, a Japanese-American who isn't in touch with his roots. Despite their differences, both men excel at martial arts, and utilize their formidable skills when they go up against Yoshida, a vicious yakuza drug dealer with ties to Kenner's past.

Black Rain

Mediator

1989

Two New York cops get involved in a gang war between members of the Yakuza, the Japanese Mafia. They arrest one of their killers and are ordered to escort him back to Japan. However, in Japan he manages to escape, and as they try to track him down, they get deeper and deeper into the Japanese Mafia scene and they have to learn that they can only win by playing the game—the Japanese way.

Rising Sun

Guard at Imperial Arms

1993

When a prostitute is found dead in a Los Angeles skyscraper occupied by a large Japanese corporation, detectives John Connor and Web Smith are called in to investigate. Although Connor has previous experience working in Japan, cultural differences make their progress difficult until a security disc showing the murder turns up. Close scrutiny proves the disc has been doctored, and the detectives realize they're dealing with a cover-up as well.