JKA KATA

JKA SLOVENIJA

2019

JKA KARATE KATE Heian Shodan – 21 elem. (KIAI: 9,17) Str. 4 Heian Nidan – 26 elem. (KIAI: 11, 26)(7a-7b koshi kamae, uraken uchi - yoko keage) Str.12 Heian Sandan - 20 elem. (KIAI: 10, 20) Str.21 Heian Yondan - 27 elem. (KIAI: 13, 25)(5-6-7; 8-9-10 koshi kamae, uraken uchi-yoko keage, empi uchi) Str.29 Heian Godan - 23 elem. (KIAI: 12, 19)(15-16 mikazuki geri, mae empi uchi; 21a-21b ; 23a-23b) Str. 38 Tekki Shodan - 29 elem. KIAI: 15, 29)(9a-9b; 11a-11b; 13a-13b; 23a-23b; 25a-25b; 27a-27b) Str. 46 Tekki Nidan – 24 elem. (KIAI: 16, 24)(11a-11b; 19a-19b fumikomi, mae enpi) Str. 55 Tekki Sandan – 36 elem. (KIAI: 16, 36)(16a-16b; jodan nagashi uke, jodan uraken uchi) Str. 61 Bassai Dai – 42 elem. (KIAI: 19, 42)(25a-25b; 28a-28b mikazuki geri, mae empi uchi) Str. 71 Kanku Dai – 65 elem. (KIAI: 15,65)(10-11; 51-52 koshi kamae, uraken uchi-yoko keage, 26-27-28; 29-30-31 koshi kamae, uraken uchi, yoko keage, empi uchi; 42,43 ura tsuki, ude tate; 64 nidan geri Str. 83 Jion – 47 elem. (KIAI: 17, 47)(30, 31,32,33,34,35,37 ryo ken kakiwake orosu, gedan juji uke, gedan kakiwake uke, chudan kakiwake uke, jodan juji uke, jodan uraken uchi, uke tsuki-ue kamae, jodan uraken uchi Str. 101 Enpi – 37 elem. (KIAI: 15, 36) Str. 116 Jitte – 24 elem. (KIAI: 13, 24)(17a-17b; 18a-18b ashi dachi-bo toriage, bo oshimodoshi) Str. 129 Gankaku – 42 elem. (KIAI: 28, 42)(8a-8b nidan geri, juji uke) Str. 140 Hangetsu – 41 elem.v (KIAI: 11, 40) Str. 155 Kanku Sho – 48 elem. (KIAI: 6, 48) Str. 170 Bassai Sho – 27 elem.v (KIAI: 17, 22)(1a-1b; 2a-2b; 3a-3b; 20a-20b) Str. 188 Chinte – 32 elem. (KIAI: 28, 32) Str. 201 Nijushiho – 34 elem. (KIAI: 18, 33) Str. 215 Sochin -41 elem. (KIAI: 30, 41)(15, 16, 17; 18, 19, 20 koshi kamae , uraken uchi - yoko keage, mae empi uchi; 25, 26, 27, 28 osae uke-jodan yoko nukite, ashi mae geri, maegeri-ura tsuki-naiwan hineri uke, naiwan hineri uke- ura tsuki) Str. 228 Unsu – 48 elem. (KIAI: 36, 48)(1a-1b; 44a-44b-44c;45a-45b; 46a-46b) Str. 241 Gojushiho Sho – 65 elem. (KIAI: 57, 64)(27a-27b; 30a-30b; 51a-51b; 54a-54b) Str. 256 Gojushiho Dai – 67 elem.v (KIAI: 59, 66) Str. 274 Meikyo – 33 elem. (KIAI: 32) Str. 297 Wankan – 24 elem. (KIAI: 24) Str. 308 Jiin – 35 elem. ( KIAI: 11,35) Str. 315 Taikyoko Shodan – 20 elem. ( KIAI: 8,16) Str. 317 Taikyoko Nidan – 20 elem.v ( KIAI: 8,16) Str. 318 Taikyoko Sandan – 20 elem. ( KIAI: 8,16) Str. 319 Ten No Kata – 10 elem. Str. 320

JKA KATA

Stran 1

KATA Kata are the pre-arranged sets of movements in which the karateka defends against several imaginary attackers. Each movement of a kata represents a self-defense technique against a potential opponent. These selfdefense "applications" are traditionally called bunkai (analysis), although the word oyo (application) is also used.

All kata have an embusen, or performance line. This is the path of the kata, or rather, its floor plan. The movements of a given kata must always be performed in the correct order, and the kata must always start and finish on the same spot.

Kata is one of the earliest forms of karate training. It is how karate passed from one generation to the next.

Kata are very dynamic, teaching the student how to move in all directions, sometimes jumping, sometimes dropping. Kata can be quite diverse. Some kata are very strong and sturdy in nature, while others require great speed and agility. Certain techniques are performed slowly and powerfully, while others are executed more sharply and quickly. By practicing kata, the students learn rhythm and timing, expansion and contraction of the body's muscles, and proper breathing. Above all, an individual's performance in kata must exude confidence while maintaining the kata's humble nature. In kata, the concept of zanshin becomes important. Zanshin means "remaining mind," referring to the idea that one must always be in a relaxed state of readiness, especially at the end of a kata to demonstrate one's awareness of any remaining potential danger. Only after the final bow is the kata truly finished. There are 26 (25 not including Jiin) kata in the Shotokan syllabus. These kata can be divided into several groupings:

HEIAN Heian Shodan - Heian Nidan – Heian Sandan - Heian Yondan - Heian Godan

TEKKI Tekki Shodan - Tekki Nidan - Tekki Sandan

SENTEI Bassai Dai - Kanku Dai - Jion - Enpi

ADVANCED (Funakoshi) Jitte - Gankaku - Hangetsu

ADVANCED (Nakayama) Kanku Sho - Bassai Sho - Chinte - Nijushiho - Sochin - Unsu - Gojushiho Sho - Gojushiho Dai - Meikyo

ADVANCED (Rare) Wankan - Jiin

MODERN Taikyoku Shodan - Taikyoku Nidan - Taikyoku Sandan -Ten No Kata

HEIAN The five Heian kata (or Pinan in Okinawan) were developed by Gichin Funakoshi's teacher, Yasutsune Itosu, to facilitate the teaching of karate to large groups of students. The word Heian is a combination of the word heiwa, meaning "calm" or "peaceful," and the word antei, which means "easy" or "stable." Therefore, Heian could be translated as "Peace and Stability." Gichin Funakoshi uses the translation "Peaceful Mind" in his book Karate-Do Kyohan. Heian kata are taught to beginner and intermediate students. It is through practice of the Heian kata that the student learns the basic skills of karate.

It should be noted that, originally, Heian Shodan and Heian Nidan were taught in reverse order, with names reversed as well. Gichin Funakoshi switched their order to give a better indication of their respective difficulties.

TEKKI Tekki (also Naihanchi or Naifanchi) is usually translated as "Iron Horseman." This is because, aside from crossing the feet in kosa position a few times, all movements in the three Tekki kata are performed in horse stance. The embusen for all Tekki kata is a lateral straight line (i.e. there are no forward or backward stepping motions). The idea when performing these kata is that you are defending against assailants with your back to a wall. The practice of Tekki is excellent for developing a strong horse stance, sharp hip vibration, and stealthy lateral movement. Sokon Matsumura is believed to have learned Tekki during his excursions to China. It was Yasutsune Itosu who modified and expanded this kata, creating Tekki Nidan and Tekki Sandan.

JKA KATA

Stran 2

SENTEI Sentei means "selection." The four "selection kata" exemplify Shotokan karate. They are very strong yet humble kata.

Usually taught at the brown belt level, it is from these four kata that a 1st kyu brown belt must choose a tokui kata for their black belt exam. The tokui kata is the kata chosen as one's favorite or best kata. Also, all black belts are expected to know the four Sentei kata for tournament since these kata are used during the elimination rounds. Although the Sentei kata are taught after learning the Heian and Tekki kata, it should be understood that the former kata predate the latter. Heian kata were created after, in an effort to simplify the learning of the Sentei kata.

ADVANCED (Funakoshi) Not really a separate grouping of kata, these three kata represent the more advanced kata taught by Gichin Funakoshi.

These advanced kata, although not necessarily more difficult than other kata, require deeper understanding of breathing, muscle contraction/expansion, and timing. Although Funakoshi taught Taikyoku kata and Ten No Kata, he only taught 15 out of the standard 26 Shotokan kata taught today. These included the 5 Heian, 3 Tekki, 4 Sentei, and 3 advanced kata.

ADVANCED (Nakayama) These nine kata were labeled as "Advanced Kata" in Masatoshi Nakayama's Best Karate series, still one of the most comprehensive resources in the study of JKA Shotokan kata. These kata require greater agility, as many of the movements are quite extravagant, requiring jumping, falling, high kicks, etc. Most of these kata were borrowed from other styles of karate and stem directly from the five animals of Shaolin kung fu. These kata tend to be more exciting, for the performer as well as the spectator, and are usually tournament favorites.

ADVANCED (Rare) These two kata are also considered as advanced, with only one difference. These kata were the only kata never described in Nakayama's Best Karate series, which left these kata shrouded in mystery. In order to rectify this, the JKA has included Wankan in its newer series of kata books while Jiin has actually been removed from the JKA kata syllabus.

MODERN These modern kata were created in the 30's by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo. They are the most basic kata, feeling more like kihon. They were made to simplify the teaching of karate to large groups of students. By today's standards they are considered overly simplified and most instructors view them as obsolete. However, although these kata do not form part of the 25 kata of JKA Shotokan karate, Taikyoku Shodan is a required kata for early kyu exams at several dojo, including the honbu dojo in Japan (as listed on the JKA website).

A kata summary is provided for each Shotokan kata. The following symbols are used: *: kiai / : in between 2 techniques performed simultaneously &: in between 2 techniques performed in succession but considered as only 1 count of the kata ( ): alternate technique names that are also commonly used appear in parentheses

JKA KATA

Stran 3

HEIAN SHODAN

HEIAN SHODAN 21 elementov (KIAI: 9,17) Heian Shodan is the first kata in the Heian series and is usually the first kata that a beginner must learn. It has 21 movements and its embusen is roughly I-shaped. Essential points to learn in H1 include the oi-zuki (lunge punch) and gedan-barai (down block) which comprise over half of the kata. Also of great importance is developing the zenkutsu-dachi (front stance), the main stance of H1. The student must try to master the arc-like moves of the feet and reversing direction, skills which appear time and time again in all kata. One must also develop power from the hips in both the hanmi (for blocks) and shomen (for punches) positions. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

2

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

3

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

4

kentsui-tate-mawashi-uchi

vertical hammer-fist strike

zenkutsu-dachi

--

JKA KATA

Notes

target collarbone

Stran 4

HEIAN SHODAN

5

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

6

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

7

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

8

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

9*

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

Stran 5

HEIAN SHODAN

10

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

11

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

12

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

13

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

14

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

JKA KATA

Stran 6

HEIAN SHODAN

15

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

16

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

17*

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

18

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 7

HEIAN SHODAN

19

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

20

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

21

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 8

HEIAN SHODAN

JKA KATA

Stran 9

HEIAN SHODAN

JKA KATA

Stran 10

HEIAN SHODAN

JKA KATA

Stran 11

HEIAN NIDAN

HEIAN NIDAN 26 elementov (KIAI: 11, 26) Heian Nidan, the second Heian kata, has 26 movements and the embusen is almost Ishaped. Half of the kata is performed in kokutsu-dachi (back stance). Shuto-uke (knife-hand block) appears seven times, making it a very important technique for this kata. H2 is the first kata that teaches kicks and double-hand movements. Also, gyaku hanmi, reversing the torso's position, is first learned in H2. Pay special attention to the keage/uraken (side snap kick/backfist) combination, as it appears in several other kata. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1

haiwan-uke / zenwan-hitae-kamae

back of forearm block / forearm forehead posture

kokutsu-dachi

jodan jodan

soto-nagashi uke / outside flowing block / kentsui-soto-mawashi-uchi outside hammer-fist strike

kokutsu-dachi

jodan jodan

2

3

sokumen-zuki (uke-zuki)

punch to side (block-punch)

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

4

haiwan-uke / zenwan-hitae-kamae

back of forearm block / forearm forehead posture

kokutsu-dachi

jodan jodan

JKA KATA

Notes

target opponent's elbow

Stran 12

HEIAN NIDAN

5

6

7

soto-nagashi-uke / outside flowing block / kentsui-soto-mawashi-uchi outside hammer-fist strike

sokumen-zuki (uke-zuki)

punch to side (block-punch)

ryoken-koshi-kamae & both fists hip posture & uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi sideways back-fist strike / / side snap kick yoko-geri-keage

kokutsu-dachi

jodan jodan

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

ashi-dachi

-jodan chudan

8

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

9

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

target opponent's elbow

Stran 13

HEIAN NIDAN

10

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

11*

shihon-tate-nukite / osae-uke

4-finger vertical spear-hand / pressing block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan chudan

12

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

13

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

14

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 14

HEIAN NIDAN

15

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

16

uchi-uke

inside block

ashi-zenkutsu

chudan

17

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

18

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

19

uchi-uke

inside block

ashi-zenkutsu

chudan

JKA KATA

gyaku-hanmi

gyaku-hanmi

Stran 15

HEIAN NIDAN

20

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

21

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

22

morote-uke

double-hand block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

23

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

24

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

Stran 16

HEIAN NIDAN

25

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

26*

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

Stran 17

HEIAN NIDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 18

HEIAN NIDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 19

HEIAN NIDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 20

HEIAN SANDAN

HEIAN SANDAN 20 elementov (KIAI: 10, 20) The shortest kata in the Heian series, Heian Sandan has 20 counts, with almost half of the movements performed in kiba-dachi (horse stance). Tai sabaki, or "body shifting," is of utmost importance in H3. The student must learn how to rotate the entire body to gain momentum, as well as how to slide the feet, yori-ashi. Empi (elbow) techniques are also first learned in this kata. Timing skills become prominent as H3 is the first kata that contains a slow movement (#11). #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1

uchi-uke

inside block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

2

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

heisoku-dachi

chudan gedan

3

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

heisoku-dachi

chudan gedan

4

uchi-uke

inside block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Notes

Stran 21

HEIAN SANDAN

5

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

heisoku-dachi

chudan gedan

6

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

heisoku-dachi

chudan gedan

7

morote-uke

double-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

8

shihon-tate-nukite / osae-uke

4-finger vertical spear-hand / pressing block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 22

HEIAN SANDAN

9 kentsui-uchi-mawashi-uchi

inside hammer-fist strike (sideways hammer-fist strike)

kiba-dachi

chudan

(kentsui -yoko-mawashi-uchi)

10*

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

11

ryoken-ryokoshi-kamae

both fists both hips posture

heisoku-dachi

--

12

fumikomi / furi-empi

stomp kick (thrusting step) / swinging elbow

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

vertical back-fist strike

kiba-dachi

jodan

13 uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 23

HEIAN SANDAN

14

fumikomi / furi-empi

15 uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

16

fumikomi / furi-empi

17 uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

JKA KATA

stomp kick (thrusting step) / swinging elbow

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

vertical back-fist strike

kiba-dachi

jodan

stomp kick (thrusting step) / swinging elbow

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

vertical back-fist strike

kiba-dachi

jodan

Stran 24

HEIAN SANDAN

18 tsukami-uke (koko-uke) & oi-zuki

grasping block (tigermouth) & lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan chudan

19

koho-tsukiage / ushiro-empi-uchi

rising punch to rear / backwards elbow strike

kiba-dachi

jodan chudan

20*

koho-tsukiage / ushiro-empi-uchi

rising punch to rear / backwards elbow strike

kiba-dachi

jodan chudan

JKA KATA

tate-shuto-uke variation

yori-ashi

Stran 25

HEIAN SANDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 26

HEIAN SANDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 27

HEIAN SANDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 28

HEIAN YONDAN

HEIAN YONDAN 27 elementov (KIAI: 13, 25) The fourth level Heian has 27 counts and has many similarities to H2. The kata's primary stance is kokutsu-dachi (back stance), but students first learning this kata must also contend with the new kosa-dachi, a cross stance that is quite awkward for most karateka. H4 introduces the student to many new techniques such as kosa-uke, shuto-uchi, kakiwake-uke, mae-empi, and hiza-tsuchi. To perform H4 properly, a certain amount of flexibility is required as all of the mae-geri (front kicks) are jodan (upper level). Heian Yondan also has more kicks (5) than the other Heian kata. Slow moves must also be mastered in this kata; there are four of them. Much of H4 involves double-hand techniques, with morote-uke (double-hand block {x4}) occurring more than any other technique. Obviously, morote-uke was held in high regard during this kata's creation. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

Notes

1

haiwan-uke / zenwan-hitae-kamae

back of forearm block / forearm forehead posture

kokutsu-dachi

jodan jodan

slow speed

2

haiwan-uke / zenwan-hitae-kamae

back of forearm block / forearm forehead posture

kokutsu-dachi

jodan jodan

slow speed

3

ryoken-kosa-uke (ryoken-juji-uke)

both fists cross block (X-block)

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

JKA KATA

Stran 29

HEIAN YONDAN

4

morote-uke

double-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

5

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

ashi-dachi

--

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

6 uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi sideways back-fist strike / / side snap kick yoko-geri-keage

7

mae empi-uchi

front elbow strike

zenkutsu-dachi

--

8

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

ashi-dachi

--

JKA KATA

tsugi-ashi

Stran 30

HEIAN YONDAN

9 uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi sideways back-fist strike / / side snap kick yoko geri-keage

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

10

mae-empi-uchi

front elbow strike

zenkutsu-dachi

--

11

shuto-gedan-barai & jodan-uke / shuto-soto-mawashi-uchi

low knife-hand sweep & face block / outside sword-hand strike

hizakutsu

gedan jodan jodan

12

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

jodan

vertical back-fist strike

kosa-dachi

jodan

13* uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

JKA KATA

Stran 31

HEIAN YONDAN

14

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

15

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

jodan

16

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

17

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

18

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

slow speed

Stran 32

HEIAN YONDAN

19

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

jodan

20

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

21

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

22

morote-uke

double-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

23

morote-uke

double-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 33

HEIAN YONDAN

24

morote-uke

double-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

25*

hiza-tsuchi

knee strike

ashi-dachi

--

26

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

27

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 34

HEIAN YONDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 35

HEIAN YONDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 36

HEIAN YONDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 37

HEIAN GODAN

HEIAN GODAN 23 elementov (KIAI: 12, 19) Heian Godan is the last kata in the Heian series and has 23 counts. A combination of quick and slow movements, timing skill and fluidity of motion are essential for this kata. It is the first Shotokan kata containing a jump (tobi-komi), a very exciting technique for beginner and intermediate karateka. Mikazuki-geri is also first seen in H5. The mizu-nagare-kamae at the beginning of the kata and the shuto-uchikomi/manji-uke combo at the end are extremely vital for proper kata performance. Bunkai for H5 involve many throws, locks, and takedowns. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1

uchi-uke

inside block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

2

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

3

mizu-nagare-no-kamae

water flowing posture

heisoku-dachi

--

4

uchi-uke

inside block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Notes

slow speed

Stran 38

HEIAN GODAN

5

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

6

mizu-nagare-no-kamae

water flowing posture

heisoku-dachi

--

7

morote-uke

double-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

8

ryoken-kosa-uke (ryoken-juji-uke)

both fists cross block (X-block)

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

9

kaisho-kosa-uke (ryosho-juji-uke)

both palms cross block (X-block)

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 39

HEIAN GODAN

10

ryosho-juji-osae-uke

both palms pressing X-block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

11

tsuki (uke-zuki)

punch (block-punch)

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

12*

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

13

gedan-barai

down block

kiba-dachi

gedan

fumikomi variation

14

kake-uke

hooking block

kiba-dachi

chudan

slow speed

JKA KATA

Stran 40

HEIAN GODAN

15

mikazuki-geri

crescent kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

16

mae empi-uchi

front elbow strike

kiba-dachi

chudan

17

morote-uke

double-hand block

kosa-dachi

chudan

18

uho-tsukiage

rising punch to right rear

renoji-dachi

jodan

19*

ryoken-kosa-uke (ryoken-juji-uke)

both fists cross block (X-block)

kosa-dachi

gedan

JKA KATA

tobikomi (tobi)

Stran 41

HEIAN GODAN

20

morote-uke

double-hand block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

21

soto-nagashi-uke / shuto-uchikomi & uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

flowing block / sword-hand cutting strike & inside block / down block (swirling block)

ashi-zenkutsu kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan jodan gedan

22

jotai-sonomama (manji-kamae)

upper body as is (swirling posture)

heisoku-dachi

--

23

soto-nagashi-uke / shuto-uchikomi & uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

flowing block / sword-hand cutting strike & inside block / down block (swirling block)

ashi-zenkutsu kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan jodan gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 42

HEIAN GODAN

JKA KATA

Stran 43

HEIAN GODAN

JKA KATA

Stran 44

HEIAN GODAN

JKA KATA

Stran 45

TEKKI SHODAN

TEKKI SHODAN 29 elementov (KIAI: 15, 29) Tekki Shodan is the first kata in the Tekki series and is also the first kata that does not start in the traditional yoi position. Having 29 counts, it is performed almost entirely in a horse stance. The embusen is simply a straight line. Since there is no forward or backward movement, all footwork is accomplished in a sideways manner using the crossing step, or kosa-ashi. The crossing step, also known as "stealth step" (sashi-ashi), is characteristic of all Tekki kata. Another important trademark of the three Tekki kata is the haiwan-nagashiuke/tate-uraken combo. New techniques learned in T1 include kagi-zuki, morote-zuki, and the unique ashi-namigaeshi, a very effective technique that only occurs in this kata. For proper kata performance, obviously a strong horse stance is essential, but the student must also understand the difference between hip rotation and hip vibration, similar but slightly distinct concepts. Often neglected but of great importance, head turns must be stressed in this kata.

Head turns are regarded as a single count of the kata and must be performed sharply. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

Notes

1

kao-muki

face turning

--

--

kosa-ashi natural speed

2

fumikomi / kake-uke

stomp kick / hooking block

kiba-dachi

chudan

haishu variation

3

sokumen-mae-empi-uchi

front elbow strike to side

kiba-dachi

--

4

kao-muki / ryoken-koshi-kamae

face turning / both fists hip posture

kiba-dachi

--

JKA KATA

Stran 46

TEKKI SHODAN

5

gedan-barai

down block

kiba-dachi

gedan

6

kagi-zuki

hook punch

kiba-dachi

chudan

7

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

8

fumikomi / uchi-uke

stomp kick / inside block

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

kiba-dachi

jodan ura-zuki variation gedan jodan chudan

9

haiwan-uchi-nagashi-uke / back-arm inside flowing block / gedan-uke & down block & tate-uraken-uchi / vertical backfist strike / zenwan-suihei-munehorizontal forearm posture kamae

10

JKA KATA

kao-muki

face turning

kiba-dachi

kosa-ashi slow speed

--

Stran 47

TEKKI SHODAN

11

ashi-namigaeshi & zenwan-sokumen-uke

returning wave-leg & forearm block to side

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

12

kao-muki

face turning

kiba-dachi

--

13

ashi-namigaeshi & zenwan-sokumen-uke

returning wave-leg & forearm block to side

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

14

kao-muki / ryoken-koshi-kamae

face turning / both fists hip posture

kiba-dachi

--

15*

sokumen-zuki / kagi-zuki (morote-zuki)

punch to side / hook punch (double punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan chudan

16

kake-uke

hooking block

kiba-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed haishu variation

Stran 48

TEKKI SHODAN

17

sokumen-mae-empi-uchi

front elbow strike to side

kiba-dachi

--

18

kao-muki / ryoken-koshi-kamae

face turning / both fists hip posture

kiba-dachi

--

19

gedan-barai

down block

kiba-dachi

gedan

20

kagi-zuki

hook punch

kiba-dachi

chudan

21

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

22

fumikomi / uchi-uke

stomp kick / inside block

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

JKA KATA

kosa-ashi slow speed

Stran 49

TEKKI SHODAN

23 haiwan-uchi-nagashi-uke / back-arm inside flowing block / gedan-uke & down block & tate-uraken-uchi / vertical backfist strike / zenwan-suihei-munehorizontal forearm posture kamae

kiba-dachi

24

kao-muki

face turning

kiba-dachi

--

25

ashi-namigaeshi & zenwan-sokumen-uke

returning wave-leg & forearm block to side

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

26

kao-muki

face turning

kiba-dachi

--

27

ashi-namigaeshi & zenwan-sokumen-uke

returning wave-leg & forearm block to side

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

JKA KATA

jodan ura-zuki variation gedan jodan chudan

Stran 50

TEKKI SHODAN

28

kao-muki / ryoken-koshi-kamae

face turning / both fists hip posture

kiba-dachi

--

29*

sokumen-zuki / kagi-zuki (morote-zuki)

punch to side / hook punch (double punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 51

TEKKI SHODAN

JKA KATA

Stran 52

TEKKI SHODAN

JKA KATA

Stran 53

TEKKI SHODAN

JKA KATA

Stran 54

TEKKI NIDAN

TEKKI NIDAN Tekki Nidan is the shortest Tekki kata, consisting of 24 movements. Similar to Tekki Shodan in many ways, this kata is also performed almost entirely in horse stance, with the exception of a few crossing steps and one heisoku-dachi. The objective in this kata is to develop grabbing, throwing, and locking applications while maintaining a strong kiba-dachi.

To accomplish this, the student is introduced to many new techniques such as ryo-zenwansuhei-kamae, zenwan-shomen-gedan-kensei, and oshi-uke. The use of tsukami-uke in this kata teaches how to draw an opponent in for counter-attack. # Technique Translation Stance Target Notes 1

--

--

kosa-ashi slow speed

forearm block to side / horizontal forearm posture

kiba-dachi

chudan chudan

fumikomi

3 zenwan-shomen-gedan-kensei

forearm frontal low feint

--

gedan

kosa-ashi

4

zenwan-sokumen-gedanuke (oshi-uke)

low forearm block to side (pushing block)

kiba-dachi

gedan

5

ryo-zenwan-suihei-kamae horizontal forearms posture

heisoku-dachi

--

2

ryo-zenwan-suihei-kamae horizontal forearms posture

zenwan-sokumen-uke / zenwan-suihei-munekamae

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 55

TEKKI NIDAN

6

forearm block to side / horizontal forearm posture

kiba-dachi

chudan chudan

7 zenwan-shomen-gedan-kensei

forearm frontal low feint

--

gedan

8

zenwan-sokumen-gedanuke (oshi-uke)

low forearm block to side (pushing block)

kiba-dachi

gedan

9

kao muki / koshi-kamae

face turning / hip posture

kiba-dachi

--

10

soete-uchi-uke

added-hand inside block

kiba-dachi

chudan

ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

-chudan

kiba-dachi

chudan

11

zenwan-sokumen-uke / zenwan-suihei-munekamae

koshi-kamae & hip posture & fumikomi / mae-empi-uchi foot stomp / front elbow strike

12

JKA KATA

tsukami-uke (koko-uke)

grasping block (tiger-mouth)

kosa-ashi

slow speed

Stran 56

TEKKI NIDAN

13

kagi-zuki

hook punch

kiba-dachi

chudan

14

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

15

fumikomi / uchi-uke

stomp kick / inside block

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

16* haiwan-uchi-nagashi-uke / back-arm inside flowing block / gedan-uke & down block & tate-uraken-uchi / vertical backfist strike / zenwan-suihei-munehorizontal forearm posture kamae

kiba-dachi

jodan ura-zuki variation gedan jodan chudan

17

kao muki / koshi-kamae

face turning / hip posture

kiba-dachi

--

18

soete-uchi-uke

added-hand inside block

kiba-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

kosa-ashi slow speed

Stran 57

TEKKI NIDAN

19

koshi-kamae & hip posture & fumikomi / mae-empi-uchi foot stomp / front elbow strike

ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

-chudan

20

tsukami-uke (koko-uke)

grasping block (tiger-mouth)

kiba-dachi

chudan

21

kagi zuki

hook punch

kiba-dachi

chudan

22

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

23

fumikomi / uchi-uke

stomp kick / inside block

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

kiba-dachi

jodan ura-zuki variation gedan jodan chudan

24* haiwan-uchi-nagashi-uke / back-arm inside flowing block / gedan-uke & down block & tate-uraken-uchi / vertical backfist strike / zenwan-suihei-munehorizontal forearm posture kamae

JKA KATA

slow speed

kosa-ashi slow speed

Stran 58

TEKKI NIDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 59

TEKKI NIDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 60

TEKKI SANDAN

TEKKI SANDAN The last Tekki kata, Tekki Sandan, has 36 movements. It is a very quick kata, having a rapid timing with many consecutive techniques performed without pause. T3 offers some new techniques such as zenwan-uchiotoshi, zenwan-hineri, and zenwan-gedan-furisute. Many of the techniques in T3 are executed with the "added hand" (soete) for additional support. T3 teaches the student that the added hand may also be used for grabbing or trapping an opponent's techniques. Much of the bunkai of this kata revolve around this idea of "trapping," meaning to immobilize the adversary's attacking limbs so that they cannot make further attacks. # Technique Translation Stance Target Notes 1

uchi-uke

inside block

kiba-dachi

chudan

2

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

kiba-dachi

chudan gedan

3

zenwan-uchiotoshi / zenwan-osae-uke

forearm falling strike / forearm pressing block

kiba-dachi

chudan chudan

kiba-dachi

jodan

kiba-dachi

jodan

4

haiwan-uchi-nagashi-uke back-arm inside flowing block

5

JKA KATA

tate-uraken-uchi

vertical back-fist strike

Stran 61

TEKKI SANDAN

6

koshi-kamae

(hands on) hip posture

kiba-dachi

--

7

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan

8

zenwan-hineri

forearm twist

kiba-dachi

chudan

9

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

low forearm block to side (pushing block)

kiba-dachi

gedan

low forearm swing

kiba-dachi

gedan

10 zenwan-sokumen-gedan-uke (oshi-uke)

11

zenwan-gedan-furisute

JKA KATA

kosa-ashi slow speed

nakadaka variation

Stran 62

TEKKI SANDAN

12

koshi-kamae

(hands on) hip posture

kiba-dachi

--

13

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan

14

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

kiba-dachi

chudan gedan

15

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

kiba-dachi

chudan gedan

16*

haiwan-nagashi-uke & tate-uraken-uchi / zenwan-suihei-munekamae

back-arm flowing block & vertical back-fist strike / horizontal forearm posture

kiba-dachi

jodan ura-zuki variation jodan chudan

17

kao-muki

head turn

kiba-dachi

JKA KATA

--

Stran 63

TEKKI SANDAN

18

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

19

Fumikomi

foot stomp

kiba-dachi

gedan

20

zenwan-uchiotoshi (zenwan-barai)

forearm falling strike (forearm sweep)

kiba-dachi

chudan

kiba-dachi

jodan

21

haiwan-uchi-nagashi-uke back-arm inside flowing block

22

tate-uraken-uchi

vertical back-fist strike

kiba-dachi

jodan chudan

23

koshi-kamae

(hands on) hip posture

kiba-dachi

--

JKA KATA

kosa-ashi slow speed

Stran 64

TEKKI SANDAN

24

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan

25

zenwan-hineri

forearm twist

kiba-dachi

chudan

26

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

low forearm block to side (pushing block)

kiba-dachi

gedan

27 zenwan-sokumen-gedan-uke (oshi-uke)

28

zenwan-gedan-furisute

low forearm swing

kiba-dachi

gedan

29

koshi-kamae

(hands on) hip posture

kiba-dachi

--

JKA KATA

kosa-ashi slow speed

Stran 65

TEKKI SANDAN

30

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan

31

tsukami-uke (koko-uke)

grasping block (tigermouth)

kiba-dachi

chudan

32

kagi-zuki

hook punch

kiba-dachi

chudan

33

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

34

uchi-uke / fumikomi

inside block / stomp kick

kiba-dachi

chudan gedan

35

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

kiba-dachi

chudan gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

kosa-ashi slow speed

Stran 66

TEKKI SANDAN

36*

haiwan-nagashi-uke & tate-uraken-uchi / zenwan-suihei-munekamae

JKA KATA

back-arm flowing block & vertical back-fist strike / horizontal forearm posture

kiba-dachi

jodan ura-zuki variation jodan chudan

Stran 67

TEKKI SANDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 68

TEKKI SANDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 69

TEKKI SANDAN

JKA KATA

Stran 70

BASSAI DAI

BASSAI DAI 42 elementov (KIAI: 19, 42) Bassai (pronounced Patsai in Okinawan) is most often translated as "To Penetrate a Fortress," meaning that one must exhibit the power and spirit required to break through an enemy's castle. This is particularly evident in the kata's first movement, when the karateka launches forward with soete-uchi-uke. The word Dai means "big," describing the kata's larger movements, contrary to its counterpart Bassai Sho. Bassai, Kanku, and Gojushiho are the three Shotokan kata that each have two versions, a Sho version (small) and a Dai version (big). Most translators agree that Bassai can more accurately be translated as "To Extract From a Fortress." Bassai Dai is believed to have been created by Sokon Matsumura. Much of the bunkai focus on breaking the opponent's balance and defenses against grabbing attacks.

Like many Shotokan kata, Bassai Dai is praticed in many styles of karate, having several variations. The JKA version has 42 movements.

Bassai Dai is usually the first Sentei kata to be learned and is the most popular choice as tokui kata by 1st kyu examinees for black belt. It is charaterized by many switching arm blocking combinations, making effective use of the hanmi/gyaku-hanmi positions.

Performance of gyaku-hanmi in Bassai Dai is substantially more difficult than in H2 because in Bassai, the front stance should not be shortened to accommodate gyaku-hanmi.

Many techniques are seen for the first time in this kata such as tate-shuto-uke, sukui-uke, and hasami-uchi. The ryosho-tsukami-uke & gedan-sokuto-kekomi combination is unique to Bassai kata (both versions), while the powerful yama-zuki can ony be found in Bassai Dai and Wankan. It is interesting to note that one of the most basic blocking techniques, chudansoto-uke, is first used in this kata, and then never seen again. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1

soete-uchi-uke (bassai-uke)

added hand inside block

kosa-dachi

chudan

2

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

3

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Notes

gyaku-hanmi

Stran 71

BASSAI DAI

4

soto-uke

outside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

5

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

6

sukui-uke & soto-uke

scooping block & outside block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan chudan

sukui natural speed

7

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

gyaku-hanmi

8

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

hachiji-dachi

--

natural speed

JKA KATA

gyaku-hanmi

Stran 72

BASSAI DAI

9

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

hachiji-dachi

chudan

10

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

hachiji-dachi

chudan

11

uchi-uke

inside block

hizakutsu

chudan

12

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

hachiji-dachi

chudan

13

uchi-uke

inside block

hizakutsu

chudan

14

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 73

BASSAI DAI

15

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

16

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

17

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

18

ryosho-tsukami-uke (bassai-uke)

both palms grasping block

ashi-zenkutsu

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed gyaku-hanmi

Stran 74

BASSAI DAI

19*

sokuto-kekomi / ryosho-tsukamiyose

sword-foot thrust kick / both palms grasping-pulling

ashi-dachi

gedan --

20

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

21

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

22

morote-age-uke

double-hand rising block

heisoku-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

natural speed

Stran 75

BASSAI DAI

23

ryo-kentsui-hasami-uchi

both hammer-fists scissors strike

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

24

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

yori-ashi

25

soto-nagashi-uke / shuto-uchikomi & gedan-uke / uchi-uke (manji-uke)

outside flowing block /

ashi-zenkutsu ashi-zenkutsu heisoku-dachi heisoku-dachi

jodan gedan gedan jodan

manji-uke slow speed

sword-hand thrusting strike &

down block / inside block (swirling block)

26

gedan-barai / fumikomi

down block / stomp kick

kiba-dachi

gedan

27

kake-uke

hooking block

kiba-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed haishu variation

Stran 76

BASSAI DAI

28

mikazuki-geri & mae-empi-uchi

crescent kick & front elbow strike

ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

chudan --

29

gedan-uke / zenwan-mune-kamae

down block / forearm chest posture

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

30

gedan-uke / zenwan-mune-kamae

down block / forearm chest posture

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

31

gedan-uke / zenwan-mune-kamae

down block / forearm chest posture

kiba-dachi

gedan chudan

32

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

ashi-zenkutsu

--

JKA KATA

Stran 77

BASSAI DAI

33

yama-zuki

mountain punch

ashi-zenkutsu

jodan gedan

34

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

heisoku-dachi

--

35

yama-zuk

mountain punch

ashi-zenkutsu

jodan gedan

36

i ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

heisoku-dachi

--

37

yama-zuki

mountain punch

ashi-zenkutsu

jodan gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

slow speed

Stran 78

BASSAI DAI

38

sukui-uke

scooping block

hizakutsu

gedan

39

sukui-uke

scooping block

hizakutsu

gedan

40

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

41

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

kokutsu-dachi (gyaku-kokutsu)

chudan

42*

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 79

BASSAI DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 80

BASSAI DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 81

BASSAI DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 82

KANKU DAI

KANKU DAI 65 elementov (KIAI: 15,65) Having 65 movements, Kanku Dai is the longest of the Sentei kata, as well as one of the longest kata in the Shotokan syllabus. Kanku translates as "Looking at the Sky" or "Viewing the Sky," referring to the kata's opening sequence. The word Dai (big) is used to describe the kata's larger movements as compared to the kata's smaller version, Kanku Sho. Kanku is one of three Shotokan kata that have two versions, Dai (big) and Sho (small). Originally, the kata was called Kushanku, named after a Chinese diplomat and kung fu expert. It is uncertain if this diplomat actually created the kata (or if he even existed), but many credit the kata to one of his alleged students, Santunuku Sakugawa.

Kanku Dai is basically an amalgamation of the Heian and Tekki kata. When practicing this kata, one will find many pieces of H2-H5, and even some T1. It is a very energetic kata involving jumping, dropping, and spinning techniques. It is said that this was Gichin Funakoshi's favorite kata. Although the kata tends to favor the use of shuto-uchi, Kanku Dai offers two unique combinations, ura-zuki & ude-tate-fuse and gedan-uke/furiage. The very difficult jumping nidan-geri is also first practiced in this kata. Kanku Dai has many high and low techniques, requiring a certain amount of flexibility. It is a highly dynamic kata that must be performed with grace in motion. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

Notes

1

ryote-hitae-mae-ue

both hands in front and above forehead

hachiji-dachi

jodan

slow speed

2

ryote-kafukubu-mae

both hands in front of abdomen

hachiji-dachi

--

slow speed

3

haiwan-uke

back of arm block

kokutsu-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

Stran 83

KANKU DAI

4

haiwan-uke

back of arm block

kokutsu-dachi

jodan

5

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

hachiji-dachi

chudan

6

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

hachiji-dachi

chudan

7

uchi-uke

inside block

hizakutsu

chudan

8

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

hachiji-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 84

KANKU DAI

9

uchi-uke

inside block

hizakutsu

chudan

10

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

ashi-dachi

--

11

uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi / yoko-geri-keage

sideways back-fist strike / side snap kick

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

12

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

13

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 85

KANKU DAI

14

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

15*

osae-uke / shihon-nukite (tate-nukite)

pressing block / four finger spear-hand (vertical spear-hand)

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan chudan

16

shuto-gedan-barai & jodan-uke / shuto-soto-mawashi-uchi

low knife-hand sweep & face block / outside sword-hand strike

ashi-zenkutsu

gedan jodan jodan

17

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

jodan

18

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

JKA KATA

gyaku-hanmi

Stran 86

KANKU DAI

19

nagashi-uke / shuto-uchikomi

flowing block / knife-hand thrusting strike

ashi-zenkutsu

jodan gedan

20

gedan-barai

down block

renoji-dachi

gedan

slow speed

21

shuto-gedan-barai & jodan-uke / shuto-soto-mawashi-uchi

low knife-hand sweep & face block / outside sword-hand strike

ashi-zenkutsu

gedan jodan jodan

gyaku-hanmi

22

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

jodan

23

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

JKA KATA

Stran 87

KANKU DAI

24

nagashi-uke / shuto-uchikomi

flowing block / knife-hand thrusting strike

ashi-zenkutsu

jodan gedan

25

gedan-barai

down block

renoji-dachi

gedan

26

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

ashi-dachi

--

27

uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi / yoko-geri-keage

sideways back-fist strike / side snap kick

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

28

mae-empi-uchi

front elbow strike

zenkutsu-dachi

--

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 88

KANKU DAI

29

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

ashi-dachi

--

30

uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi / yoko-geri-keage

sideways back-fist strike / side snap kick

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

31

mae-empi-uchi

front elbow strike

zenkutsu-dachi

--

32

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

33

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 89

KANKU DAI

34

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

35

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

36

shuto-gedan-barai & jodan-uke / shuto-soto-mawashi-uchi

low knife-hand sweep & face block / outside sword-hand strike

ashi-zenkutsu

gedan jodan jodan

37

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

jodan

38

uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

vertical back-fist strike

kosa-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

gyaku-hanmi

Stran 90

KANKU DAI

39

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

40

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

41

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

42

soete-ura-zuki / hiza-zuchi

added hand inverted punch / knee strike

ashi-dachi

jodan --

43

ude-tate-fuse

arms vertically prone

ashi-zenkutsu

--

JKA KATA

Stran 91

KANKU DAI

44

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

gedan

45

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

46

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

47

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

48

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 92

KANKU DAI

49

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

50

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

51

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

ashi-dachi

--

52

uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi / yoko-geri-keage

sideways back-fist strike / side snap kick

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

53

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 93

KANKU DAI

54

osae-uke / shihon-nukite (tate-nukite)

pressing block / four finger spear-hand (vertical spear-hand)

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan chudan

55

uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

vertical back-fist strike

kiba-dachi

jodan

56

kentsui-uchi-mawashi-uchi

inside hammer-fist strike

kiba-dachi

chudan

57

sokumen-mae-empi-uchi

front elbow strike to side

kiba-dachi

--

58

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

kiba-dachi

--

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

Stran 94

KANKU DAI

59

gedan-barai

down block

kiba-dachi

gedan

60

zenwan-gedan-uke / furiage

forearm down block / rising swing

kiba-dachi

gedan jodan

61

otoshi-zuki

falling punch

kiba-dachi

gedan

62

kaisho-kosa-uke (ryosho-juji-uke)

both palms crossing block (X-block)

hachiji-dachi

jodan

63

ashi-jiku-mawari

foot pivot rotation

zenkutsu-dachi

--

JKA KATA

fumikomi variation

natural speed

Stran 95

KANKU DAI

64

ryoken-mune-mae-kosa

both fists crossed in front of chest

zenkutsu-dachi

--

65*

nidan-geri & uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

two level kick & vertical back-fist strike

-zenkutsu-dachi

chudan jodan jodan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 96

KANKU DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 97

KANKU DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 98

KANKU DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 99

KANKU DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 100

JION

JION 47 elementov (KIAI: 17, 47) Jion is believed to be named after the Jion-ji, a Buddhist temple in China. Since there are many Jion-ji temples in existence, it is uncertain which one the kata refers to. The actual translation of Jion means "Love and Goodness." Although the kata's creator is unknown, credit is usually given to Sokon Matsumura, who is presumed to have learned this kata during his travels to China. Jion is the simplest of the Sentei kata and is comprised mostly of pieces from Heian and Tekki kata. It has 47 counts and contains some of the most basic movements that Shotokan has to offer. Being a simple kata, there are no fancy moves to hide behind. If a student possesses poor basics, then the performance of Jion will be weak. For this reason, it is an excellent kata to judge one's overall technique. The idea when performing the kata is to be like a Buddha, with a strong yet humble spirit. The simplicity of its movements demonstrates one's humility, yet each technique should be performed with explosive power and unwavering stability. Instructors have been known to group Jion along with Jiin and Jitte, since each start with the same hand-over-fist salutation and have very similar movements. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan gedan

2

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

3

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

4

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Notes

slow speed

Stran 101

JION

5

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

6

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

7

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

8

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

9

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

10

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 102

JION

11

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

12

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

13

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

14

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

15

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 103

JION

16

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

17*

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

18

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

19

kagi-zuki

hook punch

kiba-dachi

chudan

20

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

Stran 104

JION

21

kagi-zuki

hook punch

kiba-dachi

chudan

22

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

23

teisho-yoko-uke

sideways palm-heel block

kiba-dachi

chudan

24

teisho-yoko-uke

sideways palm-heel block

kiba-dachi

chudan

25

teisho-yoko-uke

sideways palm-heel block

kiba-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

Stran 105

JION

26

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

27

morote-uke

double-hand block

heisoku-dachi

jodan

28

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

29

morote-uke

double-hand block

heisoku-dachi

jodan

30

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

heisoku-dachi

gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 106

JION

31

ryoken-kosa-uke (juji-uke)

both fists cross block (X-block)

kosa-dachi

gedan

32

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

33

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

34

ryoken-kosa-uke (juji-uke)

both fists cross block (X-block)

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

Stran 107

JION

35

tate-uraken-uchi

vertical back-fist strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

36

tsuki-uke / haiwan-uchi-nagashi-uke

punch-block / back-arm inside flowing block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan jodan

37

tate-uraken-uchi / zenwan-mune-suhei-kamae

vertical back-fist strike / forearm chest posture

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan --

38

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

39

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

ura-zuki variation

Stran 108

JION

40

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

41

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

42

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

43

zenwan-uchi-otoshi / fumikomi

forearm falling strike / stomp kick

kiba-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 109

JION

44

zenwan-uchi-otoshi / fumikomi

forearm falling strike / stomp kick

kiba-dachi

chudan

45

zenwan-uchi-otoshi / fumikomi

forearm falling strike / stomp kick

kiba-dachi

chudan

46

sokumen-zuki (yumi-zuki)

punch to side (bow punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan

yori-ashi slow speed

47*

sokumen-zuki (yumi-zuki)

punch to side (bow punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan

yori-ashi slow variation

JKA KATA

Stran 110

JION

JKA KATA

Stran 111

JION

JKA KATA

Stran 112

JION

JKA KATA

Stran 113

JION

JKA KATA

Stran 114

JION

JKA KATA

Stran 115

ENPI

ENPI 37 elementov (KIAI: 15, 36) Empi (formerly known as Wanshu, named after a Chinese diplomat) has 37 counts, making it the shortest of the Sentei kata. Empi translates as "Flying Swallow" or "Flight of the Swallow." It is a very dynamic kata, requiring speed and agility. It gets its name from the diving patterns of the swallow, a small bird known for its excellent swiftness and maneuverability. Hence, the kata is characterized by quick changes in direction, as well as many sinking and rising motions that mimic the swallow's flight. Just as the swallow catches flying insects in mid-flight, the bunkai of Empi focus on catching the opponent in mid-attack, unbalancing him and making him unable to make further attacks.

Empi offers several new variations on previously learned techniques, usually by changing their angle. These techniques include gedan-zuki, age-zuki, tekubi-uchi (similar to soto-uke), teisho oshiage-uke and teisho-osae-uke. Empi also allows for the practice of certain rare techniques that, although not unique, are not found in many other kata. These movements include dropping to one knee (orishiki), the reverse lean (in hizakutsu), and kirikae-ashi, an advanced form of footwork whereby the karateka switches the feet to counterattack. Empi is probably most noted for the spinning jump (kaiten-tobi) ocurring at the end of the kata, making it attractive to younger karateka. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1

gedan-barai

down block

ashi-orishiki (hiza-dachi)

gedan

2

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

hachiji-dachi

--

3

gedan-barai

down block

ashi-zenkutsu

gedan

JKA KATA

Notes

Stran 116

ENPI

4

mizu-nagare-no-kamae

water flowing posture

kiba-dachi

chudan

5

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

6

age-zuki

rising punch

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

7

ken-kata-ue / gedan-zuki

fist above shoulder / downward punch

kosa-dachi

-gedan

JKA KATA

Stran 117

ENPI

8

gedan-barai

down block

hizakutsu (gyaku-zenkutsu)

gedan

9

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

10

age-zuki

rising punch

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

11

ken-kata-ue / gedan-zuki

fist above shoulder / downward punch

kosa-dachi

-gedan

JKA KATA

Stran 118

ENPI

12

gedan-barai

down block

hizakutsu (gyaku-zenkutsu)

gedan

13

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

14

sho-naname-mae-ue

palm diagonally in front and above

kiba-dachi

jodan

15*

tekubi-uchi

wrist strike

ashi-dachi (tsuru-dachi)

jodan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 119

ENPI

16

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

kiba-dachi

chudan

17

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan

18

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan

19

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 120

ENPI

20

age-zuki

rising punch

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

21

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

22

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

23

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

24

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

kirikae-ashi

Stran 121

ENPI

25

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

26

age-zuki

rising punch

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

27

ken-kata-ue / gedan-zuki

fist above shoulder / downward punch

kosa-dachi

-gedan

28

gedan-barai

down block

hizakutsu (gyaku-zenkutsu)

gedan

29

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

JKA KATA

Stran 122

ENPI

30

teisho-oshiage-uke

palm-heel pushing-rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

31

teisho-oshiage-uke / teisho-osae-uke

palm-heel pushing-rising / palm-heel pressing block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan chudan

slow speed

32

teisho-oshiage-uke / teisho-osae-uke

palm-heel pushing-rising / palm-heel pressing block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan chudan

slow speed

33

teisho-oshiage-uke / teisho-osae-uke

palm-heel pushing-rising / palm-heel pressing block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan chudan

slow speed

JKA KATA

Stran 123

ENPI

34

gedan-kamae

downward posture

kokutsu-dachi

gedan

yori-ashi

35

ryosho-tsukami-uke (koko-uke)

both palms grasping block (tiger-mouth block)

fudo-dachi

jodan gedan

yori-ashi

36*

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

kaiten-tobi

37

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 124

ENPI

JKA KATA

Stran 125

ENPI

JKA KATA

Stran 126

ENPI

JKA KATA

Stran 127

ENPI

JKA KATA

Stran 128

JITTE

JITTE 24 elementov (KIAI: 13, 24) Jitte (or Jutte) means "Ten Hands." Mastery of the kata is supposed to imply that the karateka is able to perform the actions of ten men, further inferring that one has the ability to fight off ten armed opponents. Even within the Shotokan style, this kata has many variations.

The JKA version consists of 24 moves. Jitte is a very robust and "heavy" kata, having many powerful techniques. Even the slow movements are executed with a certain vigor and tension.

Although Jitte does not have any really complex movements, some of the hip motions require a lot of practice to develop proper kime. It is essential that the karateka demonstrate true budo spirit in each attack and defense, and every movement should be completed with absolute confidence and destructive power.

Many of the applications for Jitte focus on defenses against stick (bo) attacks; Jitte offers some new and unique techniques to that end such as bo-tsukami-uke, followed by bo-toriage, followed by bo-oshimodoshi. The zenwan-uchi-barai is likewise only found in this kata.

Tekubi-osae-uke/tekubi-kake-uke occur in several other advanced kata, but are usually learned first in Jitte. The "stick defense" applications of Jitte usually work equally well against an opponent's arm, providing many arm-breaking techniques. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

Notes

1

tekubi-osae-uke (haishu-osae-uke)

wrist pressing block (backhand pressing block)

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

2

teisho-oshiage-uke / teisho-osae-uke

palm-heel pushing-rising / palm-heel pressing block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan chudan

slow speed

3 osae-uke

JKA KATA

pressing block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

Stran 129

JITTE

4

(haishu)-tekubi-kake-uke (maki-otoshi-uke)

wrist hooking block (rolling dropping block)

kiba-dachi

chudan

5

teisho-yoko-uke

palm-heel sideways strike

kiba-dachi

chudan

6

teisho-yoko-uke

palm-heel sideways strike

kiba-dachi

chudan

7

teisho-yoko-uke

palm-heel sideways strike

kiba-dachi

chudan

8

ryoken-kosa-uke (ryoken-juji-uke)

both fists cross block (both fists X-block)

--

jodan

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

kosa-ashi

Stran 130

JITTE

9

ryoken-ryogawa-gedan-

both fists both sides down block

kiba-dachi

gedan

yori-ashi

mountain posture (wedge block)

kiba-dachi

jodan

yori-ashi

fumikomi / zenwan-uchi-harai

foot stomp / forearm sweeping strike

kiba-dachi

jodan

fumikomi / zenwan-uchi-harai

foot stomp / forearm sweeping strike

kiba-dachi

jodan

barai (ryoken-kakiwake-uke)

(both fists wedge block)

10

yama-gamae (kakiwake-uke)

11

12

JKA KATA

Stran 131

JITTE

13*

fumikomi / zenwan-uchi-harai

foot stomp / forearm sweeping strike

kiba-dachi

jodan

14

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

hachiji-dachi

gedan

slow speed

15

tsukami-uke (koko-uke)

grasping block (tiger-mouth block)

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

jodan-shuto-uke variation

16

ryote--bo-tsukami-uke (tate-bo-uke)

both hands stick grasping block

zenkutsu-dachi

--

JKA KATA

(vertical stick block)

Stran 132

JITTE

17

bo-toriage & bo-oshimodoshi

stick grab (rising) & stick repel

ashi-dachi zenkutsu-dachi

--

bo-dori slow speed yori-ashi

18

bo-toriage & bo-oshimodoshi

stick grab (rising) & stick repel

ashi-dachi zenkutsu-dachi

--

bo-dori slow speed yori-ashi

19

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 133

JITTE

20

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan chudan

21

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

22

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

23

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

Stran 134

JITTE

24*

JKA KATA

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

yori-ashi

Stran 135

JITTE

JKA KATA

Stran 136

JITTE

JKA KATA

Stran 137

JITTE

JKA KATA

Stran 138

JITTE

JKA KATA

Stran 139

GANKAKU

GANKAKU 42 elementov (KIAI: 28, 42) Legend has it that Gankaku was created by Sokon Matsumura, who was inspired by the teachings of a shipwrecked Chinese sailor skilled in the art of kung fu. Formerly known as Chinto (Battle East), Gankaku is one of the most graceful Shotokan kata. The kata is usually translated as "Crane on a Rock," referring to the crane stance (tsuru-dachi), when one must sink on one-leg as if a crane perched, ready to strike. The crane stance in Gankaku is performed in manji-kamae and is always followed by an uraken/yoko-keage (followed by a punch) combo. Even though the kata has many fast and sharp attacks, it also exhibits several slow postures as well, lending a certain calmness to the kata, especially given the slow double-counts in tsuru-dachi. The embusen of this kata is a straight line (perpendicular to Tekki), characteristic of fighting in narrow passages or alleys (or even stairways).

Gankaku has several challenging forward spinning turns, unlike most kata which have reverse turning motions. Simply put, forward turns begin with a stepping forward motion in order to change direction while reverse turns begin with a backward stepping motion to change direction. The only "normal" reverse turn of Gankaku occurs during the 3rd manji-uke (#17), and even that is performed linearly, making it more difficult to maintain one's balance.

In addition to forward spinning and standing on one leg, the karateka must also be agile enough to execute a jumping double front kick. As can be seen, the practice of Gankaku helps to develop (and requires) excellent balance. The ability to pivot smoothly on one foot is also essential. Other aspects of the kata are fairly simple, consisting mostly of 3 repeated techniques: kosa-uke, kakiwake-uke, and manji-uke. The kata has a total count of 42. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1

ryosho-awase-uke

both palms combined block

kokutsu-dachi

jodan

2

ryosho-juji-osae-uke

both palms X-pressing block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Notes

Stran 140

GANKAKU

3

tsuki (sokumen-zuki)

punch (side punch)

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

4

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

5

gedan-barai

down block

kiba-dachi

gedan

6

kaisho-kosa-uke (ryosho-juji-uke)

both palms cross-block (both palms X-block)

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

Stran 141

GANKAKU

7

ryoken-mune-mae-kosa

both fists crossed in front of chest

zenkutsu-dachi

--

8

nidan-geri & ryoken-kosa (juji)-uke

two-level kick & both fists cross (X) block

-zenkutsu-dachi

chudan jodan gedan

9

ryoken-kosa (juji)-uke

both fists cross (X) block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

10

gedan-uke

down block

kokutsu-dachi

gedan

11

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 142

GANKAKU

12

ryosho-kakiwake-uke

both palms wedge block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

13

ryosho-kakiwake-uke

both palms wedge block

kiba-dachi

chudan

slow speed

14

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

hachiji-dachi

gedan

slow speed

15

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

JKA KATA

Stran 143

GANKAKU

16

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

17

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

18

ryoken-kosa (juji)-uke

both fists cross (X) block

ashi-orishiki (hiza-dachi)

gedan

19

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

kiba-dachi

chudan

slow speed

20

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

hachiji-dachi

gedan

slow speed

JKA KATA

Stran 144

GANKAKU

21

ryoken-ryokoshi-kamae

both fists on both hips posture

hachiji-dachi

--

22

furi-empi (empi-uchi)

swinging elbow (elbow strike)

hizakutsu

chudan

23

furi-empi (empi-uchi)

swinging elbow (elbow strike)

hizakutsu

chudan

24

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

kosa-dachi

chudan

slow speed

25

uchi-uke-kamae / gedan-kamae (manjikamae)

inside block / down block posture (swirling posture)

ashi-dachi (tsuru-dachi)

jodan gedan

slow speed

JKA KATA

Stran 145

GANKAKU

26

ryoken-koshi-kamae

27 uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi / yoko-geri-keage

both fists hip posture

ashi-dachi (tsuru-dachi)

--

sideways backfist strike / side snap kick

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

28*

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

29

uchi-uke-kamae / gedan-kamae (manjikamae)

inside block / down block posture (swirling posture)

ashi-dachi (tsuru-dachi)

jodan gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

slow speed

Stran 146

GANKAKU

30

ryoken-koshi-kamae

31 uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi / yoko-geri-keage

both fists hip posture

ashi-dachi (tsuru-dachi)

--

sideways backfist strike / side snap kick

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

32

sokumen-zuki (gyaku-zuki)

reverse punch (side punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan

33

uchi-uke-kamae / gedan-kamae (manjikamae)

inside block / down block posture (swirling posture)

ashi-dachi (tsuru-dachi)

jodan gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

slow speed

Stran 147

GANKAKU

34

ryoken-koshi-kamae

35 uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi / yoko-geri-keage

both fists hip posture

ashi-dachi (tsuru-dachi)

--

sideways backfist strike / side snap kick

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

36

sokumen-zuki (gyaku-zuki)

reverse punch (side punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan

37

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

ashi-zenkutsu

jodan

JKA KATA

slow speed

shuto-uchi variation

Stran 148

GANKAKU

38

tate-empi-uchi

vertical elbow strike

ashi-zenkutsu

jodan

39

ryote-koshi-kamae

boths hands hip posture

ashi-zenkutsu

--

40

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists hip posture

ashi-dachi (tsuru-dachi)

--

sideways backfist strike / side snap kick

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

41 uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi / yoko-geri-keage

42*

JKA KATA

oi-zuki

natural speed

Stran 149

GANKAKU

JKA KATA

Stran 150

GANKAKU

JKA KATA

Stran 151

GANKAKU

JKA KATA

Stran 152

GANKAKU

JKA KATA

Stran 153

GANKAKU

JKA KATA

Stran 154

HANGETSU

HANGETSU 41 elementov (KIAI: 11, 40) It is said that Sokon Matsumura learned this kata during one of his journeys to China.

Like many Shotokan kata, Hangetsu can be found in other styles of karate as well, and with several variations. The JKA version has 41 counts. Other styles of karate tend to use the kata's original name of Seisan (or Seishan), which means "13". Some say the number 13 refers to the original number of steps of the kata, others believe it refers to the number of different techniques found in the kata. Gichin Funakoshi changed the kata's name to Hangetsu, meaning "Half-Moon," describing the semi-circular movements of the hands and feet during the kata's beginning sequence. Although many kata have these same circular movements (i.e. step in zenkutsu-dachi), the half-moon sliding motions of the feet tend to be a little larger and more pronounced when performing hangetsu stance. The half-moon shape is also seen at the end of the kata, with the leg and hand movements during the uraken-uchi, and of course, with the mikazuki-geri.

Hangetsu is a very unique kata within the Shotokan system. It is an internal kata, focusing on the cultivation and release of ki energy, or one's inner force. The kata's main stance, hangetsu, is an inner tension stance that only appears in this kata and nowhere else (hence the name of the stance). As such, it tends to be a very under-developed stance that is rarely practiced. Most of the kata's slow moves are executed with atypical tension and isometric contraction. Emphasis is on strong breathing and muscular contraction of the legs, buttocks, and abdominals. Some instructors teach the slow moves with ibuki breathing (hard, forceful breathing accompanied by throat contraction). However, this is not the norm for Shotokan schools and is much more common in styles like Goju-ryu. Quite simply, Hangetsu is meditation in motion, with the aim of developing one's ki. Bunkai involve close range fighting in which the hangetsu stance is used to move in between an opponent's legs (or around them) to break their balance. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

Notes

1

uchi-uke

inside block

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

2

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

JKA KATA

Stran 155

HANGETSU

3

uchi-uke

inside block

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

4

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

5

uchi-uke

inside block

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

6

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

both one-knuckle fists posture

hangetsu-dachi

--

slow speed

7 ryo-jishi-ippon-ken-kamae

JKA KATA

Stran 156

HANGETSU

8

ryo-jishi-ippon-ken-morotezuki

both one-knuckle fists double-hand punch

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

9

kaisho-yama-kamae

hands open mountain posture

hangetsu-dachi

jodan

slow speed

10

ryosho-kakiwake-kamae

both palms wedge posture

hangetsu-dachi

gedan

slow speed

11*

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

hangetsu-dachi

chudan gedan

JKA KATA

Stran 157

HANGETSU

12

tsukami-uke (koko-uke)

grasping block (tiger-mouth block)

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

13

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

hangetsu-dachi

chudan gedan

14

tsukami-uke (koko-uke)

grasping block (tiger-mouth block)

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

15

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

hangetsu-dachi

chudan gedan

16

tsukami-uke (koko-uke)

grasping block (tiger-mouth block)

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

slow speed

slow speed

Stran 158

HANGETSU

17

uchi-uke

inside block

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

18

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

19

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

20

uchi-uke

inside block

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

21

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

Stran 159

HANGETSU

22

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

23

uchi-uke

inside block

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

24

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

25

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

vertical backfist strike

kokutsu-dachi

--

26 uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

slow speed

Stran 160

HANGETSU

27

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

28

mae-geri / ken-kata-ue

front kick / fist above shoulder

ashi-dachi

chudan --

29

gedan-zuki

downward punch

hangetsu-dachi

gedan

30

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

31

age-uke

rising block

hangetsu-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

slow speed kosa-ashi

Stran 161

HANGETSU

32 uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

vertical backfist strike

kokutsu-dachi

--

slow speed

slow speed kosa-ashi

33

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

34

mae-geri / ken-kata-ue

front kick / fist above shoulder

ashi-dachi

chudan --

35

gedan-zuki

downward punch

hangetsu-dachi

gedan

36

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 162

HANGETSU

37

age-uke

38 uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

rising block

hangetsu-dachi

jodan

vertical backfist strike

kokutsu-dachi

--

slow speed

39

mikazuki-geri

crescent kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

40*

tsuki (gyaku-zuki)

punch (reverse punch)

hangetsu-dachi

chudan

zenkutsu variation gedan variation

41

ryo-teisho-awase-uke (gassho-uke)

palm-heels combined block (joined palm block)

neko-ashi-dachi

gedan

slow speed yori-ashi

JKA KATA

Stran 163

HANGETSU

JKA KATA

Stran 164

HANGETSU

JKA KATA

Stran 165

HANGETSU

JKA KATA

Stran 166

HANGETSU

JKA KATA

Stran 167

HANGETSU

JKA KATA

Stran 168

HANGETSU

JKA KATA

Stran 169

KANKU SHO

KANKU SHO 48 elementov (KIAI: 6, 48) Kanku Sho is a smaller and more advanced version of Kanku Dai. In Shotokan, there exist three kata that have two versions: Kanku, Bassai, and Gojushiho. Each has a Sho (small) version and a Dai (big) version, the Dai form usually being the one with the larger frame and greater number of movements. Yasutsune Itosu is believed to have been responsible for these second editions. He used Kanku as a model for the newer Kanku Sho, thereby creating two forms of the kata, each having similar embusen and pattern of movements. When practicing Kanku Sho, one can see that it does indeed have a smaller frame than Kanku Dai and it also has fewer movements. At one time having a count of 47 (Best Karate #9), the JKA has officially changed the count to 48, still less than Kanku Dai's 65. Although the shorter kata, Kanku Sho is quite exhaustive, requiring a greater level of fitness, especially if it must be performed repeatedly. It is one of the more acrobatic kata found in Shotokan, complete with, not one, but two jumping techniques, which are very difficult for the average karate student first learning them. The first jump is similar to the jump found in Empi (kaiten-tobi), except the jump should be performed on the spot, rather than moving backwards. The second jump, similar to the one found in Unsu (albeit easier), is a jumping spinning crescent kick. Like most anything, these jumps get easier with practice, but then of course, become more difficult with age. As such, Kanku Sho is usually the preferred kata of younger and more athletic black belts.

Although many of Kanku Sho's techniques can be found in other kata, it is the only kata demonstrating tsukami-uke with the other hand grasping one's own wrist (kaeshi-dori), providing an advanced wrist-locking application (kote-kudaki). As a final point regarding Kanku Sho, there has been some confusion over when to kiai. Kiai have been reported on moves #6,#28,#29, and #48 (#47). According to present day JKA standards, the kiai are on moves #6 and #48. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

Notes

1

morote-uke

double-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

yori-ashi

2

morote-uke

double-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

yori-ashi

JKA KATA

Stran 170

KANKU SHO

3

morote-uke

double-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

4

oi-zuki & zenwan-hineri

lunge-pumch & forearm twist

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan --

5

oi-zuki & zenwan-hineri

lunge-pumch & forearm twist

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan --

6*

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

Stran 171

KANKU SHO

7

soete-tsukami-uke

added hand grasping block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

8

mae-geri / ryote-hikiyose

front kick / both hands pulling

ashi-dachi

chudan

9

uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

vertical back-fist strike

kosa-dachi

jodan

10

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

11

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed gyaku-hanmi

Stran 172

KANKU SHO

12

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

13

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan gedan

14

furioroshi-uchi

downward swinging strike

renoji-dachi

gedan

slow speed gedan-barai variation

15

soete-tsukami-uke

added hand grasping block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

16

mae-geri / ryote-hikiyose

front kick / both hands pulling

ashi-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed gyaku-hanmi

Stran 173

KANKU SHO

17 uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

vertical back-fist strike

kosa-dachi

jodan

18

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

19

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

20

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

21

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan gedan

JKA KATA

Stran 174

KANKU SHO

22

furioroshi-uchi

downward swinging strike

renoji-dachi

gedan

slow speed gedan-barai variation

23

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

24

sokumen-zuki / gyaku-zuki (morote-zuki)

punch to side / reverse punch

kiba-dachi

chudan chudan

25

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

26

sokumen-zuki / gyaku-zuki (morote-zuki)

punch to side / reverse punch

kiba-dachi

chudan chudan

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

yori-ashi

Stran 175

KANKU SHO

27

ryosho-bo-uke

both palms stick block

kokutsu-dachi

jodan

slow speed

28

bo-oshikomi

stick pushing thrust

fudo-dachi

--

kokutsu variation

29

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

kaiten-tobi

30

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists on hip posture

ashi-dachi

--

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

31 uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi sideways back-fist strike / / side snap kick yoko-geri-keage

JKA KATA

Stran 176

KANKU SHO

32

mae-empi-uchi

front elbow strike

zenkutsu-dachi

--

33

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists on hip posture

ashi-dachi

--

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

34 uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi sideways back-fist strike / / side snap kick yoko-geri-keage

35

mae-empi-uchi

front elbow strike

zenkutsu-dachi

--

36

soete-tsukami-uke

added hand grasping block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 177

KANKU SHO

37

mae-geri / ryote-hikiyose

front kick / both hands pulling

ashi-dachi

chudan

38 uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

vertical back-fist strike

kosa-dachi

jodan

39

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

40

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

41

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 178

KANKU SHO

42

koho-kake-uke & mikazuki-tobi-geri

hooking block & jumping crescent kick

hizakutsu --

chudan chudan

43

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

gedan

44

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

45

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

46

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

kake slow speed ude-tate-fuse

Stran 179

KANKU SHO

47

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

48*

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 180

KANKU SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 181

KANKU SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 182

KANKU SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 183

KANKU SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 184

KANKU SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 185

KANKU SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 186

KANKU SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 187

BASSAI SHO

BASSAI SHO 27 elementov (KIAI: 17, 22) Another one of Yasutsune Itosu's "second editions," Bassai Sho is the smaller version of "Penetrating a Fortress," having fewer movements and a slightly smaller frame than its predecessor, Bassai Dai. Since there exist many different versions of Bassai kata, it is uncertain which one Itosu used as a model for Bassai Sho. It is entirely possible that Bassai Sho is simply one of the different versions of Bassai and was imported by Itosu. In either case, Bassai Sho is similar to Bassai Dai in its embusen and style of movement. While Bassai Dai is a very heavy kata that uses very large movements to demonstrate outer strength and power, the smaller techniques of Bassai Sho should exhibit an inner calm and energy.

Many of the kata's applications involve defenses against stick attacks. The kata uses many grasping (tiger-mouth) blocks to that effect. Although Bassai Sho contains standard techniques found in other kata, they are performed is a very unusual manner. For example, using the back of the hand for awase-uke, or performing double tsukami-uke vertically. New adaptations for previously learned techniques are prevalent in Bassai Sho. The kata has a total count of 27 and, although at one time the kiai points were on moves #17 and #25 (Best Karate #9), presently they are on moves #17 and #22 #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1

ryosho-koho-awase-uke & ryosho-juji-awase-uke

pressing block behind & combined backhand block

-kosa-dachi

-jodan

2

ryosho-bo-uke & suihei-bo-dori

both palms stick block & horizontal stick grab

kokutsu-dachi

jodan --

3

haito-sukui-uke & gedan-barai

ridgehand scooping block & down block

heisoku-dachi

gedan gedan

JKA KATA

Notes

suihei slow speed

Stran 188

BASSAI SHO

4

ryosho-bo-uke & suihei-bo-dori

both palms stick block & horizontal stick grab

kokutsu-dachi

jodan --

5

ryote-koshi-kamae

both hands on hip posture

heisoku-dachi

--

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

6

haito-yoko-mawashi-uchi / sideways ridge-hand strike / yoko-geri-keage side snap kick

7

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

kiba-dachi

chudan

8

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

suihei slow speed

slow speed

Stran 189

BASSAI SHO

9

tsuki (choku-zuki)

punch (straight punch)

kiba-dachi

chudan

10

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

11

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

12

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

13

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 190

BASSAI SHO

14

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

15

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

16

ryosho-tsukami-uke (bassai-uke)

both palms grasping block

ashi-zenkutsu

chudan

17*

sokuto-kekomi / ryosho-tsukamiyose

sword-foot thrust kick / both palms grasping-pulling

ashi-dachi

gedan --

18

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 191

BASSAI SHO

19

ryoken-ura-zuki

both fists inverted punch

kokutsu-dachi

jodan

20

soto-uke / deashi-barai & ryoken-koshi-kamae & morote-sokumen-zuki

outside block / foot sweep & both fists on hip posture & double-hand punch to side

ashi-dachi ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

jodan -chudan

inside hammer-fist strike

kiba-dachi

chudan

21 kentsui-uchi-mawashi-uchi

22*

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

23

soto-uke / deashi-barai & ryoken-koshi-kamae & morote-sokumen-zuki

outside block / foot sweep & both fists on hip posture & double-hand punch to side

ashi-dachi ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

jodan -chudan

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

Stran 192

BASSAI SHO

24

soto-uke / deashi-barai & ryoken-koshi-kamae & morote-sokumen-zuki

outside block / foot sweep & both fists on hip posture & double-hand punch to side

ashi-dachi ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

jodan -chudan

25

soto-uke / deashi-barai & ryoken-koshi-kamae & morote-sokumen-zuki

outside block / foot sweep & both fists on hip posture & double-hand punch to side

ashi-dachi ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

jodan -chudan

26

ryosho-tsukami-uke

both palms grasping block

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

slow speed

27

ryosho-tsukami-uke

both palms grasping block

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

slow speed

JKA KATA

Stran 193

BASSAI SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 194

BASSAI SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 195

BASSAI SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 196

BASSAI SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 197

BASSAI SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 198

BASSAI SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 199

BASSAI SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 200

CHINTE

CHINTE 32 elementov (KIAI: 28, 32) As with most kata, there is quite a diverse opinion concerning Chinte's origin. Some say that this kata is very old, originating from China while others contend that Chinte stems from an Okinawan folk dance. Regardless of the kata's origins, many credit Yasutsune Itosu with the unveiling of this kata for modern practice. Chinte, meaning "Unusual Hands" or "Incredible Hands," gets its name from the array of unique and rarely seen hand techniques found within the kata. Those techniques not appearing in any other kata include: tate-zuki, nakadaka-ipponken, nihon-nukite, and hasami-zuki. Uncommon techniques include gedan-mawashi-haito, found in both Gojushiho kata, and kentsui-tate-mawashi-uchi which occurs only in one other kata, Heian Shodan. The three small hops at the end of the kata (yori-ashi) probably provide the most unusual aspect of this kata and seem radically different from all other Shotokan movements. Although seemingly very simple movements, they are extremely difficult for students to execute with grace and comfort. Application (bunkai) of these backward hops also tends to confuse students and instructors alike, usually resulting in some form of reverse engineering. Bunkai for these hopping movements range from simple retreating motions, to wrist locks, or even to a full nelson hold. Many argue that the hops were simply added later in order for the karateka to regain the starting point of the kata, especially for competition.

Interestingly enough, Chinte is usually not chosen by men at tournament, leaving it to be performed almost exclusively by female competitors. Often labeled as a "women's kata," Chinte offers several defenses that are more suitable for someone of smaller size such as a woman, or even a child. Elbows, spear-hands, and palm-strikes can be very powerful techniques, even when thrown by a smaller individual, provided they are used to strike vital areas. Many of Chinte's techniques are circular or angular, requiring finesse and accuracy, not simply brute force.

When practicing Chinte, one should feel like the waves of the sea, beginning in calmness, then ebbing and flowing with the changing winds to become a tempest, and finally, with the last three hops, to be as the receding tide after the storm, bringing everything back to tranquility. The practice of this kata teaches the student to be fluid, to adjust to the opponent rather than to rigidly oppose force, yet to be capable of crashing into the adversary with the devastation of a tidal wave. Like many Shotokan kata, Gichin Funakoshi tried to change the name of this kata, renaming it Shoin (a place of study within a temple). This new name was never truly accepted by his students, and so Chinte remains as the kata's present name.

However, Chinte's count has been changed from its original number of 33 (Best Karate #9) to a count of 32. Kiai have also been adjusted to movements #28 & #32 (instead of #9 & #32, Best Karate #9). #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

Notes

1

kentsui-tate-mawashi-uchi

vertical hammer-fist strike

heisoku-dachi

--

slow speed

JKA KATA

Stran 201

CHINTE

2

kentsui-tate-mawashi-uchi

vertical hammer-fist strike

heisoku-dachi

--

3

kaisho-morote-age-uke

hands open doublehand rising block

kiba-dachi

jodan

4

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi

chudan

5

tate-zuki

vertical punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

6

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi

chudan

7

tate-zuki

vertical punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

slow speed

slow speed

Stran 202

CHINTE

8

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi

chudan

9

tate-empi-uchi

vertical elbow strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

10

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

11

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

12

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

13

uchi-uke / gedan-uke

inside block / down block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 203

CHINTE

14

sukui-uke

scooping block

heisoku-dachi

gedan

15

haito-mawashi-uke

ridge-hand circular block

kiba-dachi

gedan

16

haito-mawashi-uke

ridge-hand circular block

kiba-dachi

gedan

yori-ashi

17

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

kiba-dachi

chudan

yori-ashi

18

ryoken-kakiwake-kamae

both fists wedge posture

ashi-dachi (tsuru-dachi)

gedan

slow speed

19

nakadaka-ippon-ken uchiotoshi

middle one knuckle-fist falling strike

zenkutsu-dachi

--

slow speed variation

JKA KATA

Stran 204

CHINTE

20

nakadaka-ippon-ken uchiotoshi

middle one knuckle-fist falling strike

zenkutsu-dachi

--

21

nihon-nukite-uchi-uke

two finger spear-hand inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

22

nihon-nukite-age-zuki

two finger spear-hand rising thrust

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

23

nihon-nukite-uchi-uke

two finger spear-hand inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

24

nihon-nukite-age-zuki

two finger spear-hand rising thrust

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

25

teisho-yoko-uke

palm-heel sideways block

fudo-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed variation

Stran 205

CHINTE

26 teisho-soto-mawashi-uchi

palm-heel outside circular strike

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

27

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

28*

ryoken-hasami-zuki

both fists scissors punch

fudo-dachi

chudan

29

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi

chudan

30

tate-zuki

vertical punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

31

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

hasami-uchi variation

slow speed

slow speed

Stran 206

CHINTE

32*

tate-zuki & sho-ken-shita-ago-mae

JKA KATA

vertical punch & fist under palm front of chin

zenkutsu-dachi heisoku-dachi

chudan --

yori-ashi x3

Stran 207

CHINTE

JKA KATA

Stran 208

CHINTE

JKA KATA

Stran 209

CHINTE

JKA KATA

Stran 210

CHINTE

JKA KATA

Stran 211

CHINTE

JKA KATA

Stran 212

CHINTE

JKA KATA

Stran 213

CHINTE

JKA KATA

Stran 214

NIJUSHIHU

NIJUSHIHO 34 elementov (KIAI: 18, 33) Nijushiho, or "24 Steps," is named after the number of foot movements, or "steps," present in the kata. Originally called Niseishi (twenty-four) in Okinawan, it is one of three Shotokan kata that descended from Seisho Aragaki, the others being Sochin and Unsu. The Aragaki kata are arguably the most popular of the advanced Shotokan kata, possessing unusual and mystical techniques, allowing a natural flow from one move to another. This is especially true with Nijushiho, where at certain points in the kata, the timing becomes very rapid, almost seeming a little rushed, yet always followed by a slow move to temper the kata's pace and maintain the kata's fluidity. It is an excellent kata for developing timing and rhythm. The sanchin-dachi (hour-glass stance, not very popular in Shotokan), the traditional haito (palm down), and the makiotoshi/teishi-awase-zuki combination (one of the "coolest" moves in kata) are all exclusive to Nijushiho and Unsu, both of which are Aragaki kata. The hiji-ate at the beginning of the kata, the several awase-zuki, and the haishu techniques are all solely found in Nijushiho, bringing to light a variety of new applications involving arm-locks, chokes, etc.

The embusen is fairly compact, not allowing for too many steps in any one direction, and changes in direction are made with very little motion, giving this kata a fairly small frame.

The kata abounds with double-hand attacks and elbow strikes which are often used for close range fighting. All of this lends to the idea that the karateka must defend within a small space, quickly changing opponents. The only long-range techniques found in Nijushiho are the two yoko-kekomi, the only traditional kekomi found in any kata (unlike the gedan-kekomi from Bassai). However, these kicks are considered a recent innovation, previously being only knee lifts, and were most likely not present in the kata's original form. Nijushiho presently has a count of 34, with the two kiai points at #18 and #33 (Best Karate #10, 33 counts, kiai #18 & #32). #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

Notes

1

(nagashi) osae-uke

(flowing) pressing block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed yori-ashi

2

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

yori-ashi

JKA KATA

Stran 215

NIJUSHIHU

3

zenwan-suhei-mune-kamae forearm horizontal posture ashi-zenkutsu (mae-hiji-ate) (front elbow strike) (hidari-shizen-tai)

chudan

4

ryoken-ryokoshi-kamae

both fists on both hips posture

sanchin-dachi

--

5

awase-zuki

combined punch (U-punch)

sanchin-dachi

jodan gedan

6

ryo-zenwan-hasami-uke

both forearms scissors block

ashi-dachi

jodan

7

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

8

age-uke

rising block

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

slow speed yori-ashi

slow speed

Stran 216

NIJUSHIHU

9

tate-empi-uchi

vertical elbow strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

10

shuto-kake-uke

knife-hand hooking block

kiba-dachi

chudan

11

yoko-kekomi

side thrust kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

12

tsuki (sokumen-zuki)

punch (punch to side)

kiba-dachi

chudan

13

shuto-kake-uke

knife-hand hooking block

kiba-dachi

chudan

14

yoko-kekomi

side thrust kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed tate variation

slow speed tate variation

Stran 217

NIJUSHIHU

15

tsuki (sokumen-zuki)

punch (punch to side)

kiba-dachi

16

tekubi-makiotoshi-uke & (irimi) teisho-awase-zuki

wrist curling-falling block & (body entering) palm-heel combined punch

ashi-zenkutsu zenkutsu-dachi

chudan teisho slow speed jodan yama variation gedan fudo variation

17

haito-soto-mawashi-uchi / koho-haito

outside ridgehand strike / rear ridgehand

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

18*

teko-uchi (haishu-age-uchi)

backhand strike (backhand rising strike)

heisoku-dachi

jodan

19

koko-sukui-uke / koko-osae (tsukidashi)

tiger-mouth scooping block / tiger-mouth pressing (thrust)

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan gedan

JKA KATA

chudan

gedan-teisho variation

Stran 218

NIJUSHIHU

20

awase-zuki

combined punch (U-punch)

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

21

haishu-uke

backhand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

22

tate-empi-uchi

vertical elbow strike

kiba-dachi

jodan

23

tsuki (sokumen-zuki) / soto-nagashi-uke

punch (punch to side) / outside flowing block

kiba-dachi

chudan jodan

yori-ashi

24

gedan-barai

down block

kiba-dachi

gedan

yori-ashi

25

haishu-uke

backhand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

26

mae-empi-uchi

front elbow strike

kiba-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 219

NIJUSHIHU

27 gedan-uke / zenwan-munekamae

down block / forearm in front of chest posture

kiba-dachi

gedan

28

haishu-uke

backhand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

29

tate-empi-uchi

vertical elbow strike

kiba-dachi

jodan

30

tsuki (yoko-zuki) / soto-nagashi-uke

punch (punch to side) / outside flowing block

kiba-dachi

chudan jodan

yori-ashi

31

gedan-barai

down block

kiba-dachi

gedan

yori-ashi

32

ryoken-ryokoshi-kamae

both both on both hips posture

sanchin-dachi

--

yori-ashi

33*

awase-zuki

combined punch (U-punch)

sanchin-dachi

jodan gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 220

NIJUSHIHU

34

tekubi-makiotoshi-uke & teisho-awase-zuki

JKA KATA

wrist curling-falling block & palm-heel combined punch

sanchin-dachi

chudan teisho slow speed jodan gedan

Stran 221

NIJUSHIHU

JKA KATA

Stran 222

NIJUSHIHU

JKA KATA

Stran 223

NIJUSHIHU

JKA KATA

Stran 224

NIJUSHIHU

JKA KATA

Stran 225

NIJUSHIHU

JKA KATA

Stran 226

NIJUSHIHU

JKA KATA

Stran 227

SOCHIN

SOCHIN 41 elementov (KIAI: 30, 41) Sochin is most commonly interpreted as "Strength and Calm" or "Energetic Calm." The translations of "Preserve the Peace," or even "Peacekeeper," are also sometimes used. Sochin is a very bold and sturdy kata, marked by a commanding physical and spiritual strength. It is generally considered as a Seisho Aragaki kata. Of the three Aragaki kata practiced in Shotokan, Sochin is by far the most grounded. This is due primarily to the fact that the kata relies heavily on the use of fudo-dachi, or "immovable stance," to such a degree that the stance became nicknamed sochin-dachi. Also known as "rooted stance," fudo-dachi is probably the most stable of stances and is very tough on the thigh muscles. As such, Sochin is often practiced to train the legs. Although not the flashiest of kata, it is one of the most popular among Shotokan enthusiasts, especially at tournaments. The kata contains several slow, powerful techniques that must be executed with unwavering confidence and with proper muscle contraction and expansion. The student must project an imposing presence, instilling awe and trepidation in the enemy, allowing the karateka to utterly overwhelm the opponent with superior technique and an indomitable spirit.

The most notable technique in Sochin (aside from the fudo-dachi) is the muso-kamae (incomparable posture), Sochin's trademark. One of the more graceful and intriguing kata techniques, muso-kamae is a combination of rising block and down block, and when performed correctly, it is truly awesome. Other techniques of interest include kizami-maegeri, yoko-nukite, naiwan-hineri-uke, and jodan-mikazuki-geri, all of which are exclusive to Sochin. Interestingly enough, Gichin Funakoshi tried to change the kata's name from Sochin to Hakko (Eight Storms). However, this name never caught on and was eventually abandoned.

The revised JKA version of Sochin has 41 counts, with the kiai on #30 and #41 (Best Karate #10 40 counts, kiai on #28 and #40). #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

Notes

1

age-uke / gedan-uke (muso-kamae)

rising block / down block (incomparable posture)

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

jodan gedan

slow speed

2

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

slow speed

3

tsuki

punch

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 228

SOCHIN

4

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

5

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

6

age-uke / gedan-uke (muso-kamae)

rising block / down block (incomparable posture)

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

jodan gedan

7

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

8

tsuki

punch

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

9

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 229

SOCHIN

10

uchi-uke / gedan-uke (manji-uke)

inside block / down block (swirling block)

kokutsu-dachi

jodan gedan

11

age-uke / gedan-uke (muso-kamae)

rising block / down block (incomparable posture)

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

jodan gedan

12

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

13

tsuki

punch

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

14

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

15

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists on hip posture

ashi-dachi

--

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 230

SOCHIN

16 uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi / sideways back-fist strike / yoko-keage side snap kick

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

17

mae-empi-uchi

front elbow strike

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

18

ryoken-koshi-kamae

both fists on hip posture

ashi-dachi

--

ashi-dachi

jodan chudan

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

19 uraken-yoko-mawashi-uchi / sideways back-fist strike / yoko-keage side snap kick

20

JKA KATA

mae-empi-uchi

front elbow strike

Stran 231

SOCHIN

21

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

22

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

23

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

24

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

25

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 232

SOCHIN

26

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

27

yoko-nukite (hira-nukite) / osae-uke

sideways (flat) spearhand / pressing block

kokutsu-dachi

jodan chudan

28

(kisami) mae-geri

(jabbing) front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

29

mae-geri / ura-zuki / zenwan-hineri-uke

front kick / inverted punch / forearm twisting block

ashi-dachi

chudan jodan jodan

uraken variation

30*

ura-zuki / zenwan-hineri-uke

inverted punch / forearm wisting block

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

jodan jodan

uraken variation

31

mikazuki-geri & age-uke / gedan-uke (muso-kamae)

crescent (half-moon) kick & rising block / down block (incomparable posture)

ashi-dachi fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

jodan jodan gedan

slow muso-kamae variation

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

Stran 233

SOCHIN

32

uchi-uke

inside block

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

33

oi-zuki

lunge punch

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

34

uchi-uke

inside block

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

35

oi-zuki

lunge punch

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

36

uchi-uke

inside block

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 234

SOCHIN

37

uchi-uke

inside block

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

38

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

39

tsuki (yumi-zuki)

punch (bow punch)

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

40

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

41*

tsuki

punch

fudo-dachi (sochin-dachi)

chudan

JKA KATA

gyaku-hanmi

slow speed

Stran 235

SOCHIN

JKA KATA

Stran 236

SOCHIN

JKA KATA

Stran 237

SOCHIN

JKA KATA

Stran 238

SOCHIN

JKA KATA

Stran 239

SOCHIN

JKA KATA

Stran 240

UNSU

UNSU 48 elementov (KIAI: 36, 48) Unsu (or Unshu in Okinawan) is one of three Shotokan kata that can be traced back to Seisho Aragaki. Indeed, Unsu possesses certain techniques characteristic of an "Aragaki kata" such as teisho-awase-zuki in sanchin-dachi, the tenchi (heaven and earth) position, and kensei (feinting). Translations of the term Unsu include "Cloud Hands," "Hands in the Clouds," and even "Parting the Clouds." The name of the kata implies that your hands are like clouds, ever changing and capable of discharging lethal force in the blink of an eye. Unsu is another kata thought to have been derived from an Okinawan folkdance, perhaps paying homage to the gods Fujin (god of the wind) and Raijen (god of thunder and lightning). It has been said that the kata embodies a storm, with the kata's techniques symbolizing wind, lightning, tornadoes, etc. Another school of thought suggests that Unsu originated from one of the Shaolin forms based on the techniques of the dragon (one of kung fu's five animals). In this scenario, the karateka personifies the dragon in combat, using its claws, wings, and tail to attack in all directions, flying through the air, and even breathing fire.

Whatever the origin or philosophy behind the kata, Unsu is truly a magnificent and extremely advanced form, requiring great speed and agility, but above all, explosive power.

Just as clouds perpetually change, Unsu undergoes many transitions, making it one of the most dynamic forms of Shotokan. Changes in timing are plentiful in this kata, and attacks are thrown to all three levels of the body: jodan, chudan, and gedan. Stances also vary from internal stances like neko-ashi-dachi and sanchin-dachi, to outer tension stances such as fudodachi, zenkutsu-dachi, and kiba-dachi. Interestingly enough, it is one of two kata (not counting Tekki) that doesn't include kokutsu-dachi (unless you use the variation back stance just before the jump).

As one of Shotokan's most versatile kata, Unsu offers many unprecedented techniques and concepts. At 48 movements, Unsu contains a treasure of advanced hand techniques including ippon-nukite, seiryuto, keito, haito, kensei, uke-zuki, and teisho. Unsu's leg techniques, however, are far more interesting. Every kick found in the kata is executed in an unconventional manner contrary to normal training practices. The two mawashi-geri are the only mawashi-geri found in any Shotokan kata, and they are made while lying down! Since the karateka must literally fall down to perform these roundhouse kicks, the student must also have a basic understanding of breakfalling. The two mae-geri are performed with a reverse pivot motion on the snap back in order to quickly change direction, certainly a difficult technique to perform smoothly, never seen before and never seen again in any other kata.

Mae-kekomi is a front kick with a thrust instead of a snap, whereby the heel is used rather than the ball of the foot. Mae-kekomi is rarely if ever practiced in Shotokan, except in this kata.

The mika-zuki-geri, although seen in several other kata, cannot be used to its full potential since it is performed completely in mid-air, with the ushiro-geri never really coming to fruition. During this movement, the focus is more on the jump than on the kicks. This 360 jump is Unsu's hallmark and it is also probably the single most difficult technique in all of Shotokan kata. The jump in Kanku Sho should be practiced diligently before any attempt is made to learn the Unsu jump. When done properly, the spinning jump is simply breathtaking, making Unsu a very popular tournament kata.

JKA KATA

Stran 241

UNSU

#

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

Notes

1

ryo-teisho-ago-mae ryote-seiryuto

both palm heels front of chin both hands ox-jaw

heisoku-dachi

--

slow speed

2

ryo-keito-hane-age-uke

both chicken-head rising block

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

3

ippon-nukite

one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

gedan

4

ryo-keito-uke-no-mama

both hands chicken-head wrist block as is

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

5

ippon-nukite

one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 242

UNSU

6

ryo-keito-uke-no-mama

both hands chicken-head wrist block as is

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

7

ippon-nukite

one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

gedan

8

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi

chudan

9

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

10

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi

chudan

11

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 243

UNSU

12

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi

chudan

13

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

14

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi

chudan

15

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

16

mawashi-geri (kawashi-geri)

roundhouse kick (dodging kick)

--

chudan

naname-fuse

17

mawashi-geri (kawashi-geri)

roundhouse kick (dodging kick)

--

chudan

naname-fuse

JKA KATA

Stran 244

UNSU

18

ryo-seiryuto (kaiun-no-te)

both hands ox-jaw (open cloud hands)

kiba-dachi

--

slow speed

19

keito-kake-uke / koho-teisho-uke

chicken-head hooking block/ rear palm-heel block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan gedan

kirikae-ashi

20

keito-kake-uke / koho-teisho-uke

chicken-head hooking block/ rear palm-heel block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan gedan

kirikae-ashi

21

haito-soto-mawashi-uchi

outside ridge-hand strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

22

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

jodan

23

soto-uke

outside block

ashi-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

Stran 245

UNSU

24

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

25

haito-soto-mawashi-uchi

outside ridge-hand strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

26

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

jodan

27

soto-uke

outside block

ashi-dachi

jodan

28

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

29

ryoken-kakiwake-kamae

both fists wedge posture

heisoku-dachi

gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 246

UNSU

30

kensei / te-gedan-kamae

feint / hand low posture

--

jodan gedan

31

tsuki (gedan-zuki)

punch (downward punch)

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

32

gedan-uke-zuki

downward block-punch

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

33

gedan-uke-zuki

downward block-punch

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

34

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

fudo-dachi

chudan

35

teisho-hasami-uchi

palm-heel scissors strike

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

slow speed

Stran 247

UNSU

36*

mae-kakato-kekomi / ryosho-tsukamiyose

front heel thrust kick / both palms grasping-pulling

ashi-dachi

gedan --

37

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

--

chudan

38

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

39

gedan-barai

down block

kiba-dachi

gedan

40

haito-uke

ridge-hand block

kiba-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

Stran 248

UNSU

41

shuto-gedan-barai

knife-hand down block

kiba-dachi

gedan

42

haito-uke

ridge-hand block

kiba-dachi

jodan

43

gyaku-zuki (sokumen-zuki)

reverse punch (punch to side)

kiba-dachi

chudan

44

tate-shuto-uke & mikazuki-tobi-geri / ushiro-kekomi-tobi-geri

vertical knife-hand block & crescent kick / back thrust kick

fudo-dachi ---

chudan chudan --

45

tekubi-makiotoshi-uke & teisho-awase-zuki

wrist curling-falling block & palm-heel combined punch

sanchin-dachi

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

shuto slow speed kaiten-tobi ude-tate-fuse

chudan teisho slow speed jodan gedan

Stran 249

UNSU

46

tekubi-makiotoshi-uke & teisho-awase-zuki

wrist curling-falling block & palm-heel combined punch

sanchin-dachi

47

age-uke

rising block

fudo-dachi

jodan

48*

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

chudan teisho slow speed jodan gedan

Stran 250

UNSU

JKA KATA

Stran 251

UNSU

JKA KATA

Stran 252

UNSU

JKA KATA

Stran 253

UNSU

JKA KATA

Stran 254

UNSU

JKA KATA

Stran 255

GOJUSHIHO SHO

GOJUSHIHO SHO 65 elementov (KIAI: 57, 64) Gojushiho, or Useishi as it is known in Okinawa, is another kata accredited to Sokon Matsumura. It is uncertain whether he brought this kata back with him from his travels to China, or whether the kata was his final masterpiece, an amalgamation of all of his skill and knowledge.

Gojushiho is translated simply as "Fifty-Four Steps," making reference to the number of steps or movements in the original kata. Anko Itosu, a student of Matsumura, is alleged to be the one who created two versions of the kata, a Dai (big) version and a Sho (small) version. Both versions are highly advanced and quite long, with Sho at 65 counts and Dai at 67 counts (Best Karate #11 gives counts of 65 and 62, respectively). Being labeled as the smaller kata, one would expect Gojushiho Sho to have a smaller frame, fewer movements, and greater complexity than its counterpart Gojushiho Dai. To the contrary, Gojushiho Sho has a larger frame and is slightly less difficult to perform. In Best Karate #11, it is even listed as having more movements. It almost seems as if the names of these two kata should be reversed. It has been rumored that the names were switched decades ago for certain political considerations. In any event, according to the revised JKA count, Gojushiho Sho presently does, in fact, have fewer movements, and can officially be classified as the smaller version.

Unlike Itosu's other "second edition kata" (Bassai and Kanku), whereby an entirely new kata was developed using an earlier kata as a model, the two Gojushiho kata are most likely two different variations of the same kata. Both kata begin with mizu-nagare-uraken-kamae, an elegant posture demonstrating grace and resolve. Both kata rely heavily on the use of the fingers for jabbing strikes. At one time, Gichin Funakoshi even tried to change the name of the kata to Hotaku, meaning "woodpecker," due to the frequency of poking strikes found within the kata.

Some consider the true woodpecker's strike to be ryo-kentsui-koho-hasami-uchi (#59), viewing it primarily as a head butt attack. Regardless, for reasons unknown, the name Hotaku was never really accepted, leaving both kata with the title Gojushiho. Almost identical, these kata differ in their execution of the "trademark set." The trademark of Gojushiho Sho is be the ryuun (flowing clouds) set of movements consisting of ryuun-no-uke, followed by haishu-osae-uke/shuto-gedanbarai, and finishing with the triple shihon-tate-nukite. The main goal here is to perform ryuun-nouke as smoothly and gracefully as possible, and to rotate the nukite techniques quickly and sharply. In Gojushiho Sho, spear-hand is the attack of choice although sword-hand techniques are also predominant.

#

Technique

Translation

1 mizu-nagare-uraken-kamae water flowing back-fist posture (vertical back-fist strike) (uraken-tate-mawashiuchi)

JKA KATA

Stance

Target

Notes

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

slow speed

Stran 256

GOJUSHIHO SHO

2

ryoken-kakiwake-uke (tadzuna-kamae)

both fists wedge block (bridle posture)

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

3

ryoken-kakiwake-uke (tadzuna-kamae)

both fists wedge block (bridle posture)

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

4

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

5

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

6

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 257

GOJUSHIHO SHO

7

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

8

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

9

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

10

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

11

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

12

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 258

GOJUSHIHO SHO

13

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

14

tate-empi-uchi

vertical elbow strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

15

shuto-nagashi-uke (ryuun-no-uke)

knife-hand flowing block (flowing clouds block)

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

16

haishu-osae-uke / shuto-gedan-uke

back-hand pressing block / knife-hand down block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan gedan

17

shihon-tate-nukite

4-finger vertical spear-hand

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 259

GOJUSHIHO SHO

18

shihon-tate-nukite

4-finger vertical spear-hand

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

19

shihon-tate-nukite

4-finger vertical spear-hand

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

20

shuto-nagashi-uke (ryuun-no-uke)

knife-hand flowing block (flowing clouds block)

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

21

haishu-osae-uke / shuto-gedan-uke

back-hand pressing block / knife-hand down block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan gedan

22

shihon-tate-nukite

4-finger vertical spear-hand

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

23

shihon-tate-nukite

4-finger vertical spear-hand

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 260

GOJUSHIHO SHO

24

shihon-tate-nukite

4-finger vertical spear-hand

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

25

haito-uke

ridge-hand block

kiba-dachi

gedan

26

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

palms grasping stick block &

fists on hip posture

ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

chudan --

27 ryosho-bo-tsukami-uke & ryoken-koshi-kamae

28

haito-uke

ridge-hand block

kiba-dachi

gedan

29

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

JKA KATA

kosa-ashi slow speed

kosa-ashi slow speed

Stran 261

GOJUSHIHO SHO

30 ryosho-bo-tsukami-uke & ryoken-koshi-kamae

palms grasping stick block &

31

shuto-nagashi-uke (ryuun-no-uke)

32

ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

chudan --

knife-hand flowing block (flowing clouds block)

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

haishu-osae-uke / shuto-gedan-uke

back-hand pressing block / knife-hand down block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan gedan

33

shihon-tate-nukite

4-finger vertical spear-hand

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

34

shihon-tate-nukite

4-finger vertical spear-hand

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

35

shihon-tate-nukite

4-finger vertical spear-hand

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

fists on hip posture

Stran 262

GOJUSHIHO SHO

36

shuto-soto-mawashi-uchi

outside knife-hand strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

37

shuto-uchi-mawashi-uchi

inside knife-hand strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

38

shuto-soto-mawashi-uchi

outside knife-hand strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

39

shuto-uchi-mawashi-uchi

inside knife-hand strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

40

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

slow speed

Stran 263

GOJUSHIHO SHO

41

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

42

gedan-zuki / ken-kata-ue (tsukamiyose)

downward punch / fist above shoulder (graspingpulling)

kosa-dachi

gedan --

43

gedan barai

down block

hizakutsu (gyaku-zenkutsu)

gedan

44

shuto-nagashi-uke (ryuun-no-uke)

knife-hand flowing block (flowing clouds block)

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

45

haishu-osae-uke / shuto-gedan-uke

back-hand pressing block / knife-hand down block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 264

GOJUSHIHO SHO

46

shihon-tate-nukite

4-finger vertical spear-hand

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

47

shihon-tate-nukite

4-finger vertical spear-hand

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

48

shihon-tate-nukite

4-finger vertical spear-hand

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

49

haito-uke

ridge-hand block

kiba-dachi

gedan

50

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

51

tate-shuto-uke & tsuki (choku-zuki)

vertical knife-hand block & punch (straight punch)

ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

chudan chudan

JKA KATA

kosa-ashi slow speed

Stran 265

GOJUSHIHO SHO

52

haito-uke

ridge-hand block

kiba-dachi

gedan

53

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

54

tate-shuto-uke & tsuki (choku-zuki)

vertical knife-hand block & punch (straight punch)

ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

chudan chudan

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

chudan

55 mizu-nagare-uraken-kamae water flowing back-fist posture (vertical back-fist strike) (uraken-tate-mawashiuchi)

56 kentsui-uchi-mawashi-uchi

JKA KATA

inside hammer-fist strike

kosa-ashi slow speed

slow speed

Stran 266

GOJUSHIHO SHO

57*

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

58

ryowan-heiko-zuki

both arms parallel punch

hachiji-dachi

chudan

59

ryo-kentsui-kohohasami-uchi

both hammer-fists rear scissors strike

hachiji-dachi

chudan

60

ryoken-ryokoshi-kamae

both fists on both hips posture

hachiji-dachi

--

61

ryoken-ryokoshi-kamaesonomama

both fists on both hips posture as is

zenkutsu-dachi

--

62

ryosho-kakiwake-kamae

both palms wedge block

neko-ashi-dachi

gedan

JKA KATA

slow speed fast variation

slow speed

Stran 267

GOJUSHIHO SHO

63

ryote-keito-hane-age-uke

both hands chicken-head rising block

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

64*

ryo-seiryuto-uchi

both hands ox-jaw strike

kosa-dachi

chudan

65

shuto-nagashi-uke (ryuun-no-uke)

knife-hand flowing block (flowing clouds block)

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

slow speed

Stran 268

GOJUSHIHO SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 269

GOJUSHIHO SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 270

GOJUSHIHO SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 271

GOJUSHIHO SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 272

GOJUSHIHO SHO

JKA KATA

Stran 273

GOJUSHIHO DAI

GOJUSHIHO DAI 67 elementov (KIAI: 59, 66) Gojushiho Dai, or "Fifty-Four Steps Big," is the longer and more complex of the two Gojushiho kata. At 67 counts, it is the lengthiest of Shotokan kata, beating Gojushiho Sho (and Kanku Dai) by two moves. Its surplus of movements over its twin can basically be accounted for by the inclusion of two techniques in Gojushiho Dai that are not present in Gojushiho Sho: kokosukui-uke/tsukidashi and washide. Washide, or "eagle-hand," is a precise attack using all five fingertips pressed together in the shape of a bird's beak to strike an opponent's pressure points.

Outside of this kata, washide does not exist in Shotokan.

Gojushiho Dai has a smaller frame than its twin, mostly due to its "trademark set" of kitsutsuki-no-kamae, keito-nagashi-uke, and otoshi-ippon-nukite. It was probably due to this particular set of techniques that Gichin Funakoshi thought to rename the kata Hotaku, or "Woodpecker." Essentially, the larger frame of the ryuun (flowing cloud) set of Gojushiho Sho is replaced by the smaller kitsutsuki (woodpecker) set of Gojushiho Dai. The grand style of ryuunno-uke is replaced by the smaller curving keito-uke; the long shihon-tate-nukite are exchanged for shorter otoshi-ippon-nukite; and the big zenkutsu-dachi and kokutsu-dachi are traded for the much smaller neko-ashi-dachi. Gojushiho Dai has more techniques executed in neko-ashi-dachi than any other Shotokan kata. Along with Unsu, it is one of only two Shotokan kata (excluding Tekki, of course) that have no kokutsu-dachi at all. This can prove difficult for Shotokan karateka who generally practice kokutsu-dachi to a much greater extent, often neglecting the practice of nekoashi-dachi. One of the more difficult aspects of the kata occurs when changing direction from one neko-ashi-dachi to another; many students tend to have difficulty maintaining balance throughout.

Striking with the fingers is the norm for Gojushiho Dai so one must have an understanding of an opponent's vital areas. As a final note, since it is entirely possible that the Gojushiho kata originated from China, perhaps one may be able to see the movements of the snake (one of the five animals of Shaolin kung fu) in this kata. The keito and nukite techniques can easily be compared to the snake techniques of kung fu; and the zigzag pattern at the beginning of the kata...

#

Technique

Translation

1 mizu-nagare-uraken-kamae water flowing back-fist posture (vertical back-fist strike) (uraken-tate-mawashiuchi)

2

ryoken-morote-uke (morote-tate-uke-zuki)

JKA KATA

both fists double-hand block (both hands block-punch)

Stance

Target

Notes

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

slow speed

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

Stran 274

GOJUSHIHO DAI

3

ryoken-morote-uke (morote-tate-uke-zuki)

both fists double-hand block (both hands block-punch)

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

4

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

5

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

6

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

7

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 275

GOJUSHIHO DAI

8

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

9

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

10

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

11

tsuki (oi-zuki)

punch (lunge punch)

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

12

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 276

GOJUSHIHO DAI

13

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

14

tate-empi-uchi

vertical elbow strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

15

koko-sukui-uke / koko-osae (tsukidashi)

tiger-mouth scooping block / tiger-mouth press (thrust)

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan gedan

16

keito-uke (kitsutsuki-no-kamae)

chicken-head wrist block (woodpecker posture)

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

slow speed

17

keito-kamae / gedan-uke

chicken-head posture / down block

neko-ashi-dachi

jodan gedan

slow speed

JKA KATA

Stran 277

GOJUSHIHO DAI

18

otoshi-ippon-nukite

dropping one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

19

otoshi-ippon-nukite

dropping one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

20

otoshi-ippon-nukite

dropping one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

21

keito-uke (kitsutsuki-no-kamae)

chicken-head wrist block (woodpecker posture)

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

slow speed

22

keito-kamae / gedan-uke

chicken-head posture / down block

neko-ashi-dachi

jodan gedan

slow speed

23

otoshi-ippon-nukite

dropping one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

Stran 278

GOJUSHIHO DAI

24

otoshi-ippon-nukite

dropping one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

25

otoshi-ippon-nukite

dropping one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

26

haito-uke

ridge-hand block

kiba-dachi

gedan

27

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

28

ryosho-bo-tsukami-uke

both palms grasping stick block

ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

jodan gedan

JKA KATA

kosa-ashi slow speed

Stran 279

GOJUSHIHO DAI

29

haito-uke

ridge-hand block

kiba-dachi

gedan

30

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

31

ryosho-bo-tsukami-uke

both palms grasping stick block

ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

jodan gedan

32

keito-uke (kitsutsuki-no-kamae)

chicken-head wrist block (woodpecker posture)

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

slow speed

33

keito-kamae / gedan-uke

chicken-head posture / down block

neko-ashi-dachi

jodan gedan

slow speed

JKA KATA

kosa-ashi slow speed

Stran 280

GOJUSHIHO DAI

34

otoshi-ippon-nukite

dropping one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

35

otoshi-ippon-nukite

dropping one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

36

otoshi-ippon-nukite

dropping one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

37

shihon-nukite (yoko-nukite)

4-finger spear-hand (sideways spear-hand)

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

shuto variation

38 uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

vertical back-fist strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

slow speed

39

4-finger spear-hand (sideways spear-hand)

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

shuto variation

JKA KATA

shihon-nukite (yoko-nukite)

Stran 281

GOJUSHIHO DAI

40 uraken-tate-mawashi-uchi

vertical back-fist strike

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

41

washide-otoshi-uchi

eagle-hand dropping strike

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

42

washide-tsuki-age

eagle-hand rising thrust

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

43

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

jodan

44

ken-kata-ue / tsuki

fist above shoulder / punch

ashi-dachi

-chudan

45

koho-gedan-uke / yoko-empi-uchi

rear down block / sideways elbow strike

hizakutsu

gedan jodan

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 282

GOJUSHIHO DAI

46

keito-uke (kitsutsuki-no-kamae)

chicken-head wrist block (woodpecker posture)

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

slow speed

47

keito-kamae / gedan-uke

chicken-head posture / down block

neko-ashi-dachi

jodan gedan

slow speed

48

otoshi-ippon-nukite

dropping one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

49

otoshi-ippon-nukite

dropping one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

50

otoshi-ippon-nukite

dropping one-finger spear-hand

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 283

GOJUSHIHO DAI

51

haito-uke

ridge-hand block

kiba-dachi

gedan

52

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

53

tate-shuto-uke & shihon-tate-nukite / hari-empi-koshi-kamae

vertical knife-hand block & 4-finger vertical spear-hand / elbow guard hip posture

ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

chudan chudan --

54

haito-uke

ridge-hand block

kiba-dachi

gedan

55

jotai-sonomama

upper body as is

--

--

56

tate-shuto-uke & shihon-tate-nukite / hari-empi-koshi-kamae

vertical knife-hand block & 4-finger vertical spear-hand / elbow guard hip posture

ashi-dachi kiba-dachi

chudan chudan --

JKA KATA

kosa-ashi slow speed

kosa-ashi slow speed

Stran 284

GOJUSHIHO DAI

57 mizu-nagare-uraken-kamae water flowing back-fist posture (vertical back-fist strike) (uraken-tate-mawashiuchi)

58 kentsui-uchi-mawashi-uchi

zenkutsu-dachi

jodan

inside hammer-fist strike

kiba-dachi

chudan

59*

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

60

ryo-hiji-suhei-kamae

horizontal elbows posture

hachiji-dachi

--

61

ryo-kentsui-kohohasami-uchi

both hammer-fists rear scissors strike

hachiji-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed

slow speed fast variation

Stran 285

GOJUSHIHO DAI

62

ryo-hiji-suhei-kamae

horizontal elbows posture

hachiji-dachi

--

63

ryoken-sonomama

both fists as is

zenkutsu-dachi

--

64

ryosho-kakiwake-uke

both palms wedge block

neko-ashi-dachi

gedan

slow speed

65

ryo-keito-hane-age-uke

both hands chicken-head rising block

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

slow speed

66*

ryo-otoshi-ippon-nukite

both dropping one-finger spear-hands

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

yori-ashi

JKA KATA

Stran 286

GOJUSHIHO DAI

67

keito-uke (kitsutsuki-no-kamae)

JKA KATA

chicken-head wrist block (woodpecker posture)

neko-ashi-dachi

chudan

slow speed

Stran 287

GOJUSHIHO DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 288

GOJUSHIHO DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 289

GOJUSHIHO DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 290

GOJUSHIHO DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 291

GOJUSHIHO DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 292

GOJUSHIHO DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 293

GOJUSHIHO DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 294

GOJUSHIHO DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 295

GOJUSHIHO DAI

JKA KATA

Stran 296

MEIKYO

MEIKYO 33 elementov (KIAI: 32) Meikyo is a kata based on one of Yasutsune Itosu's versions of Rohai (Vision of a Heron).

Meikyo is most often translated as "Bright Mirror" or "Polished Mirror," perhaps alluding to the beginning of the kata, when the hands are held up in front of one's face as if looking into a mirror. The kata also contains several duplicate, or "mirroring techniques," for example: the opposing directions of the two sets of gedan-barai and oi-zuki; the pair of bo-uke & bo-dori combinations; and the double ura-zuki, which is an example of two identical techniques performed at the same time (in essence, mirroring each other). Meikyo is considered to be a highly advanced kata yet, for the most part, does not involve any effortful techniques. It has 33 counts and matches Wankan for having only one kiai (#32) instead of the normal two (although some karateka have been known to kiai on move #24 as well). Most of the kata's movements consist of beginner and intermediate level techniques. The advanced sankakutobi, or "triangle jump," is the kata's trademark and is said to impart spectacular powers to those who understand its true meaning. However, as jumps go in Shotokan, sankaku-tobi is arguably the easiest (not easy) jump to perform. The only other potentially difficult techniques include the odd angle of entry when executing the bo-uke, followed by the twisting of the hips for bo-dori-sonomama.

Being a more simple and humble kata, Meikyo is not a very popular tournament kata. The true goal of Meikyo lies in the correction of one's most basic techniques to the point of perfection, allowing for a smooth and effortless kata. Often, Meikyo is favored by seasoned veterans of karate since it is not overly strenuous yet it still possesses enough advanced techniques to challenge older and higher level karateka. Meikyo is a kata of self-reflection and introspection, sometimes even being interpreted as meaning "Mirror to the Soul." As karateka mature, they must continually reflect on their technique, searching inward for change and improvement. Looking outward or to others is for beginners. Having little flair, Meikyo is a kata for those who feel no need to prove themselves. It is not a kata to impress; it is about the self, not others. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

Notes

1

ryoken-ryokoshi-kamae

both fists on both hips posture

kiba-dachi

--

slow speed

2

ryosho-kakiwake-uke

both palms wedge block

kiba-dachi

chudan

slow speed

3

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

JKA KATA

Stran 297

MEIKYO

4

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

5

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

6

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

7

ryosho-bo-uke

both palms stick block

kokutsu-dachi

jodan

slow speed

8

bo-oshikomi

stick push-thrust

fudo-dachi

--

yori-ashi

9

bo-oshikomi-sonomama

stick thrust as is

hizakutsu (ashi-zenkutsu)

--

JKA KATA

Stran 298

MEIKYO

10

ryoken-ryokoshi-kamae

both fists on both hips posture

kiba-dachi

--

11

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

12

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

13

gedan-barai

down block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

14

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

15

ryosho-bo-uke

both palms stick block

kokutsu-dachi

jodan

JKA KATA

slow speed

slow speed

Stran 299

MEIKYO

16

bo-oshikomi

stick push-thrust

fudo-dachi

--

17

bo-oshikomi-sonomama

stick thrust as is

hizakutsu (ashi-zenkutsu)

--

18

ryoken-ryokoshi-kamae

both fists on both hips posture

kiba-dachi

--

19

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

20

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

21

uchi-uke

inside block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

yori-ashi

slow speed

Stran 300

MEIKYO

22

oi-zuki

23 kentsui-uchi-mawashi-uchi

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

inside hammer-fist strike

kiba-dachi

chudan

24

mikazuki-geri

crescent kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

25

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

kokutsu-dachi

gedan

26

haiwan-uke / zenwan-hitae-kamae

back of arm block / forearm forehead posture

kokutsu-dachi

jodan jodan

27

haiwan-uke / zenwan-hitae-kamae

back of arm block / forearm forehead posture

kokutsu-dachi

jodan jodan

JKA KATA

Stran 301

MEIKYO

28

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

zenkutsu-dachi

gedan

29

ryoken-kakiwake-uke

both fists wedge block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

30

ryoken-ura-zuki

both fists inverted punch

kokutsu-dachi

jodan

yori-ashi

31

age-uke

rising block

kokutsu-dachi

jodan

yori-ashi variation

-kokutsu-dachi

-chudan

32* sankaku-tobi / hiji-uchi & triangle jump / elbow strike shuto-uke & knife-hand block

JKA KATA

slow speed

Stran 302

MEIKYO

33

JKA KATA

shuto-uke

knife-hand block

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

Stran 303

MEIKYO

JKA KATA

Stran 304

MEIKYO

JKA KATA

Stran 305

MEIKYO

JKA KATA

Stran 306

MEIKYO

JKA KATA

Stran 307

WANKAN

WANKAN 24 elementov (KIAI: 24) Wankan, or "King's Crown," gets its name from the kata's first four moves, which are supposed to form the shape of a crown. When viewing this crown shape, one must appreciate that Wankan is the only Shotokan kata that begins diagonally. Some historians claim Wankan was handed down by the Okinawan royal family, thereby getting its name. As with other kata, Gichin Funakoshi tried to change its Okinawan name to a Japanese one. The names Shofu (Pine Wind) and Hito (Flying Waves) were attempted but failed. Wankan is one of the more recent additions to the Shotokan repertoire, possibly being imported and modified from another style (as with most of the advanced kata) by Yoshitaka Funakoshi. Wankan is a very short kata having only 24 counts and only 1 kiai, leading some karate enthusiasts to the conclusion that the kata's transition to Shotokan was never fully completed due to Yoshitaka Funakoshi's untimely death. Generally, the movements of Wankan do not pose too much difficulty for the practitioner. Moves four and five, although unusual, are not very taxing; in fact, they are even liberating because they are not confined by any stance. The only potentially troublesome technique occurs during #13, when turning from zenkutsu-dachi into neko-ashi-dachi. Although, on the surface, it is a simple mawate (turn), it is quite difficult to perform koko-sukui/koko-tsukidashi quickly, with balance and power. Overall, Wankan is a very fluid and low impact kata, having some very puzzling bunkai. It is not a very popular exam or tournament kata.

Wankan (along with Jiin) is probably one of the least practiced kata in Shotokan dojo. Why? Probably of greatest significance, Wankan (along with Jiin) was never documented in Masatoshi Nakayama's Best Karate series, a karateka's number one resource for Shotokan kata. If this exclusion didn't lend itself to the allusion of Wankan's lack of significance, at the very least, it certainly reinforced neglect of the kata. As a late addition to the compendium of JKA kata, Wankan simply hasn't received as much attention as its predecessors. The JKA has taken steps to increase awareness of this kata by including Wankan in their modernized series of books titled Karate-Do Kata.

#

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

Notes

1

ryoken-kakiwake-uke (tadzuna-kamae)

both fists wedge block (bridle posture)

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed kosa variation

JKA KATA

Stran 308

WANKAN

2

ryoken-kakiwake-uke (tadzuna-kamae)

both fists wedge block (bridle posture)

kokutsu-dachi

chudan

3

ryozenwan-hasami-uke

both forearms scissors block

ashi-dachi

jodan

4

hasami-uke-sonomama

scissors block as is

--

jodan

ashi-ippo-mae

5

hasami-uke-sonomama

scissors block as is

--

jodan

ashi-ippo-mae

6

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

slow speed

JKA KATA

slow speed kosa-ashi

Stran 309

WANKAN

gyaku-hanmi

7

tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

8

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

9

koko-sukui-uke / koko-osae (tsukidashi)

tiger-mouth scooping block / tiger-mouth press (thrust)

neko-ashi-dachi

gedan gedan

10

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed gyaku-hanmi Stran 310

WANKAN

11

Tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

12

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

13

koko-sukui-uke / koko-osae (tsukidashi)

tiger-mouth scooping block / tiger-mouth press (thrust)

neko-ashi-dachi

gedan gedan

14

tate-shuto-uke

vertical knife-hand block

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

slow speed gyaku-hanmi Stran 311

WANKAN

15

Tsuki

punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

16

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

inside hammer-fist strike

kiba-dachi

chudan

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

17 kentsui-uchi-mawashi-uchi

18 JKA KATA

mae-geri

Stran 312

WANKAN

19

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

20

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

21

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

22

mae-geri

front kick

ashi-dachi

chudan

JKA KATA

Stran 313

WANKAN

23

oi-zuki

lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan

24*

ryoken-koshi-kamae & yama-zuki

both fist on hip posture mountain punch

fudo-dachi fudo-dachi

-chudan gedan

JKA KATA

Stran 314

JIIN

JIIN 35 elementov ( KIAI: 11,35) Jiin is not a JKA kata. Often paired with Wankan because both were excluded from Masatoshi Nakayama's Best Karate volumes, these kata are quite unpopular and rarely, if ever, practiced. Jiin can be interpreted as "Love and Shadow," with some preferring the translation of "Temple Grounds." Gichin Funakoshi named the kata Shokyo which translates as "Pine Shadow," but this name was never adopted by his students. Having many similarities to Jion, Jiin is most likely another kata inspired by the teachings of a Buddhist temple in China. Jiin is sometimes grouped with Jion and Jitte, since all three use similar techniques, and all three begin in the "Ming salutation" posture (palm over fist). Jiin is a fairly plain, no frills kata, not offering much in the way of new techniques. Its primary technique is the kosauke (uchi-uke/gedan-uke), similar to the one found at the beginning of Jion, except in Jiin, gedan-uke (rather than uchi-uke) hovers over the front leg.

Jiin contains two uncharacteristic features for a Shotokan kata. First, jodan is the target for move #34; traditional straight punches to jodan do not exist in JKA Shotokan kata. Second, in order to finish on the starting point, the karateka must pull in the left leg, an action not in accordance with JKA kata procedure. If the practitioner pulls in the right leg, as is normally the case when finishing in kiba-dachi, the starting point won't be reached. Perhaps for these reasons, it was decided to remove Jiin from the JKA syllabus, leaving 25 kata instead of 26.

Of course, one should know that starting and finishing on the same spot in kata training is a relatively new concept implemented to standardize the judging of kata for competition. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1

uchi-uke / gedan uke (kosa-uke) uchi-uke / gedan uke (manji-uke) uchi-uke / gedan uke (manji-uke) age-uke oi-zuki age-uke oi-zuki gedan-barai shuto-soto-mawashi-uchi shuto-soto-mawashi-uchi shuto-soto-mawashi-uchi ryoken-kakiwake-uke mae-geri oi-zuki gyaku-zuki uchi-uke / gedan uke (kosa-uke) ryoken-kakiwake-uke mae-geri oi-zuki gyaku-zuki uchi-uke / gedan uke (kosa-uke) kentsui-uchi-mawashi-uchi

inside block / down block (crossing block) inside block / down block (swirling block) inside block / down block (swirling block) rising block lunge punch rising block lunge punch down block outside knife-hand strike outside knife-hand strike outside knife-hand strike both fists wedge block front kick lunge punch reverse punch inside block / down block (crossing block) both fists wedge block front kick lunge punch reverse punch inside block / down block (crossing block) inside hammer-fist strike

zenkutsu-dachi

chudan gedan jodan gedan jodan gedan jodan chudan jodan chudan gedan jodan jodan jodan chudan chudan chudan chudan chudan gedan chudan chudan chudan chudan chudan gedan chudan

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11* 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

JKA KATA

kokutsu-dachi kokutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi kiba-dachi kiba-dachi kiba-dachi zenkutsu-dachi ashi-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi ashi-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi kiba-dachi

Notes

slow speed

slow speed

Stran 315

JIIN

23 kentsui-uchi-mawashi-uchi inside hammer-fist strike 24 kentsui-uchi-mawashi-uchi inside hammer-fist strike 25 tate-shuto-uke vertical knife-hand block 26 gyaku-zuki reverse punch 27 tsuki punch (oi-zuki) (lunge punch) 28 mae-geri front kick 29 gyaku-zuki reverse punch 30 uchi-uke / inside block / gedan uke (kosa-uke) down block (crossing block) 31 uchi-uke / inside block / gedan uke (kosa-uke) down block (crossing block) 32 gedan-uke down block 33 ryoken-kakiwake-uke both fists wedge block 34 tsuki punch (choku-zuki) (straight punch) 35* tsuki punch (choku-zuki) (straight punch)

JKA KATA

kiba-dachi kiba-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi

chudan chudan chudan chudan chudan

ashi-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi

kiba-dachi kiba-dachi kiba-dachi

chudan chudan chudan gedan chudan gedan gedan chudan jodan

slow variation slow speed chudan variation

kiba-dachi

chudan

naore variation

kiba-dachi

slow speed

Stran 316

TAIKYOKU NIDAN

TAIKYOKU SHODAN 20 elementov ( KIAI: 8,16) Taikyoku Shodan is the first kata in the Taikyoku series. It is the most basic of all kata and has only 20 moves with three recurring techniques: down block, lunge punch, and front stance. Although credit is usually given to Gichin Funakoshi as the author of the Taikyoku kata, his son Gigo was largely responsible for their creation. Taikyoku Shodan post-dates Heian Shodan, yet it was designed to be taught before Heian Shodan to further simplify the teaching of kata to young students. Taikyoku Shodan is taught in many styles of karate. Still, many instructors do not teach this kata simply because its pattern is similar to that of Heian Shodan. Technically, Taikyoku kata are not part of the 26 kata that comprise the Shotokan style.

Taikyoku is often interpreted as meaning "First Cause" or "Basic Ultimate" to denote its basic yet important nature. Tai means "big" or "great," kyoku signifies "extreme" or "ultimate." Therefore, the kata can be translated as "Big Ultimate." Gichin Funakoshi states in his book, Karate-Do Kyohan, that Taikyoku Shodan is the ultimate training kata. Taikyoku is also known as an esoteric term used to describe the Void. The Void is a Buddhist doctrine teaching that life and all things are nothing more than illusions, impermanent in their nature.

So too can Taikyoku be viewed, as a form stripped of all complexities and extravagance, leaving only karate's truest and most effective form: move, block, and punch. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8* 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16* 17 18 19 20

gedan-barai oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki oi-zuki oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki oi-zuki oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki

down block lunge punch down block lunge punch down block lunge punch lunge punch lunge punch down block lunge punch down block lunge punch down block lunge punch lunge punch lunge punch down block lunge punch down block lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi

gedan chudan gedan chudan gedan chudan chudan chudan gedan chudan gedan chudan gedan chudan chudan chudan gedan chudan gedan chudan

JKA KATA

Notes

Stran 317

TAIKYOKU NIDAN

TAIKYOKU NIDAN 20 elementov ( KIAI: 8,16) Taikyoku Nidan is performed exactly as Taikyoku Shodan except that all of the punches are directed to the upper level (jodan) instead of the middle level (chudan). Otherwise, these two kata are identical. It is difficult for some to understand why a simple difference in target level would warrant a separate kata; it almost seems redundant. For this reason, many instructors do not teach Taikyoku Nidan. Nevertheless, a karateka should understand that this is a matter of detail. Many students may feel that such a detail is insignificant while others may believe that even the smallest detail can be vital. The Japanese are a very meticulous people (a look at Japanese tea ceremony will confirm this); it is not unreasonable that Taikyoku Nidan was created simply to emphasize the difference between jodan and chudan target areas. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8* 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16* 17 18 19 20

gedan-barai oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki oi-zuki oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki oi-zuki oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki

down block lunge punch down block lunge punch down block lunge punch lunge punch lunge punch down block lunge punch down block lunge punch down block lunge punch lunge punch lunge punch down block lunge punch down block lunge punch

zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi

gedan jodan gedan jodan gedan jodan jodan jodan gedan jodan gedan jodan gedan jodan jodan jodan gedan jodan gedan jodan

JKA KATA

Notes

Stran 318

TAIKYOKU SANDAN

TAIKYOKU SANDAN 20 elementov ( KIAI: 8,16) There are several different variations on how Taikyoku Sandan should be performed. One may also find descriptions of six Taikyoku kata. The Taikyoku kata described on this website refer to Gichin Funakoshi's book, Karate-Do Kyohan, in which he describes only three Taikyoku kata. Again, Taikyoku Sandan is almost identical to Taikyoku Shodan except that six (of the eight) down blocks (on top and bottom of embusen) are replaced with inside blocks (in back stance), and both sets of three chudan punches are exchanged for jodan punches.

Obviously, the purpose of this kata was to introduce the student to back stance and inside block. Otherwise, it is the same as its two predecessors. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8* 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16* 17 18 19 20

uchi-uke oi-zuki uchi-uke oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki oi-zuki oi-zuki uchi-uke oi-zuki uchi-uke oi-zuki gedan-barai oi-zuki oi-zuki oi-zuki uchi-uke oi-zuki uchi-uke oi-zuki

inside block lunge punch inside block lunge punch down block lunge punch lunge punch lunge punch inside block lunge punch inside block lunge punch down block lunge punch lunge punch lunge punch inside block lunge punch inside block lunge punch

kokutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi kokutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi kokutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi kokutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi kokutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi kokutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi

chudan chudan chudan chudan gedan jodan jodan jodan chudan chudan chudan chudan gedan jodan jodan jodan chudan chudan chudan chudan

JKA KATA

Notes

Stran 319

TEN NO KATA

TEN NO KATA 10 elementov It is generally accepted that Ten no Kata was created by Gigo Funakoshi as a simple training tool for beginners. Ten refers to "sky," "heaven," or "universe." The kata is usually translated as "Kata of the Universe," or "Kata of the Heavens," giving it an almost divine quality since perfection of basic technique has always been the ultimate goal of Shotokan karateka. Ten no Kata requires very little space and can be practiced almost anywhere by karateka of any age. It is not a kata in the traditional sense. It is divided into two parts, Omote (front) and Ura (back). Ten no Kata Omote is more similar to kihon than kata. It consists of ten sets of techniques. The first four sets are punching attacks: chudan-oi-zuki, jodan-oi-zuki, chudan-gyaku-zuki, and jodan-gyaku-zuki. The following six sets are block/counter-attack combinations; three defenses against chudan and three for jodan. As with any kata, Ten no Kata Omote is practiced without a partner. All moves start from hachiji-dachi (natural stance). Each technique is performed first with the right side and then with the left side. Every attack and counter-attack must be accompanied by a kiai. Some instructors teach to kiai when blocking as well.

Ten no Kata Ura really isn't kata at all; it's actually kihon-ippon-kumite (basic one-step sparring). The six sets of block/counter maneuvers from Ten no Kata Omote are practiced with a partner. The opponent attacks with three sets of chudan-oi-zuki (remember to do both sides) and three sets of jodan-oi-zuki. The defender must then apply the appropriate defense.

The Ten no Kata reviewed on this website was taken from Gichin Funakoshi's book Karate-Do Nyumon. In his description of Omote, Funakoshi says to use the fudo-dachi stance for many of the blocks. However, when viewing the photos that accompany the book, this is clearly not the case as the karateka is obviously doing zenkutsu-dachi (or even kokutsu-dachi).

Therefore, the chart below offers both options. Conforming to standard kihon-ippon-kumite requirements, any instructors who still teach Ten no Kata (and there aren't many of them) will usually use the zenkutsu-dachi rather than fudo-dachi. Since present day Shotokan karateka practice kihon and kihon-ippon-kumite regularly, Ten no Kata has become quite obsolete. #

Technique

Translation

Stance

Target

1* 2* 3*

oi-zuki oi-zuki gyaku-zuki

lunge punch lunge punch reverse punch

chudan jodan chudan

4*

gyaku-zuki

reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi (or fudo-dachi) zenkutsu-dachi (or fudo-dachi)

5*

gedan-barai & gyaku-zuki uchi-uke & gyaku-zuki shuto-uke & shihon-tate-nukite shuto-barai & gyaku-zuki

down block & reverse punch inside block & reverse punch knife-hand block & 4-finger vertical spear-hand knife-hand sweep & reverse punch

zenkutsu-dachi (or fudo-dachi) zenkutsu-dachi (or fudo-dachi) kokutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi kokutsudachi(fudo) zenkutsu-dachi zenkutsu-dachi (or fudo-dachi) zenkutsu-dachi (or fudo-dachi)

gedan chudan chudan chudan chudan chudan jodan jodan

6* 7* 8*

9*

age-uke & gyaku-zuki 10* kentsui-uchi (soto-uke) & gyaku-zuki

rising block & reverse punch hammer-fist(outside block) & reverse punch VIR: http://shotokankaratecsl.com/KATA.html JKA KATA

Notes

jodan

jodan chudan jodan chudan

Stran 320