Iwao Hazuki is a fictional character from the video game series Shenmue, created by Yu Suzuki. He is the father of the main protagonist, Ryo Hazuki, and plays a crucial role in the story. Iwao is a skilled martial artist and a dedicated father, who runs a dojo in Yokosuka, Japan. In the game, Iwao's life is tragically cut short, which sets Ryo on a quest for revenge against his father's killer. His teachings and values significantly influence Ryo's character development throughout the series, making Iwao a pivotal figure in the Shenmue narrative.