Karate is a martial art that originated in Okinawa, Japan. It is based on 15 traditional kata, or forms, that have been passed down from instructor to student for hundreds of years. Shorin-ryu karate is one of the most popular styles of karate, and it is known for its emphasis on kata. In addition to karate, practitioners also study kobudo, a traditional Okinawan weapons art, with kata for a variety of weapons. Karate is an art with a long and rich history, and it is still practiced around the world today.