Karate originated in the Ryukyu Islands, now known as Okinawa, China, and was influenced by Chinese martial arts like White Crane. It is a striking art that utilizes punching, kicking, strikes to joints, elbow strikes, and open-hand techniques. Historically and in some styles today, it also includes grappling, throwing, joint locks, and vital point strikes. Karate was brought to mainland Japan in the early 20th century during a period of cultural exchange, and was later promoted by the Japanese Ministry of Education. It grew in popularity internationally in the 1970s due to martial arts movies and training videos.