Descriptions of Shotokan Kata and Meanings of Kata Names
Heian Shodan
Peaceful mind, Form One. Basic techniques of blocking and punching. Helps student learn directional changes.
Heian Nidan
Peaceful mind, Form Two. Reverse blocking, posture and timing are just some of the benefits to be gained.
Heian Sandan
Peaceful mind, Form Three. The introduction of Kiba dachi. Also practices the use of two level blocking (Chudan & Gedan).
Heian Yondan
Peaceful mind, Form Four. Introduction of dynamic tension, juji-uke (x block) and hiza age-ate (rising knee strike).
Heian Godan
Peaceful mind, Form Five. Various changes in stances during Heian Godan students should develop a greater understanding of both stance weight ratios and stance changes. Care should be taken in Kosa Dachi (cross feet stance) after the leap, this must be performed strong to enable the karateka to be in total control of body loading on landing. This is essential in preventing compression injuries on landing.
Tekki Shodan
A series of three kata’s, Tekki- Shodan/ Nidan/ Sandan. Originally a single kata of Chinese origin formerly named NAIHANCHI. Gichin Funakoshi changed the name to TEKKI (Iron Horse) in reference to the use of KIBA-DACHI. It is the only kata to use a single stance through-out. Funakoshi Shihan also added the Nidan and Sandan versions. Benefits to a karateka’s training include strengthening of both stance and torso along with an increase in arm speed when practiced as a complete set.
Bassai Dai
“To Storm A Castle or Penetrate the Fortress”. Develops proper hip movement.
Kanku Dai
“To Look At The Sky” Fast and slow speeds along with hard and soft versions of power are used. The kata depicts defense from attacks coming from all sides. Kanku Dai gives the feeling of heaven, earth and oneself all coming together as one. This kata served as the basis for many of the movements used in the Heian katas which can be clearly seen when performed.
Jion
Buddist origins of the ‘ Jion Temple ‘ in China. This kata cleverly masks the powerful attacking movements along with its harmonious, peaceful techniques.
Empi
“The Flight Of The Swallow”, named due to the sharp darting movements of a swallow. Empi shows a variety of karate techniques using both speed and lightness combined with both high and low attacks and defense. An ancient kata formerly known as “Wanshu”.
Hangetsu
“Crescent Moon” This kata’s is taken from its distinct foot movements. Control of both breath and muscles along with stamina are great benefits obtained from training with Hangetsu. Originally known as “Seisan”. This Shotokan kata is the equivalent of “Sanchin” from other karate systems.
Bassai Sho
A shorter version of Bassai Dai using a similar Embusen (performance line). This kata shows great strength of both mind and body utilizing both attacking and defensive techniques showing the ability to swiftly execute both strong blocking and counter-attacks.
Kanku Sho
This is the shorter version of “Kanku Dai”. Like “Kanku Dai”, “Kanku Sho” was passed down from “Kushanku”. “Kanku Sho” can be distinguished from “Kanku Dai” by the great number of chudan techniques compared to “Kanku Dai’s” concentration of jodan. To perform correctly students must fully comprehend the principles of “Kanku Dai” should they wish to gain the maximum benefit from this kata. The correct application of speed, power and muscle control are vital to the understanding of “Kanku Sho”.
Jitte
“Ten Hands” This falls into the Shorei ryu category of kata, showing the development of both muscular and physical power. Similarly to Heian Sandan, with the control and power required to lock both the hips and torso into one unit. The techniques used concentrate on the defense against an attacker armed with a staff or pole. With the correct amount of dedicated training Jitte should give the student the actions of ten men.
Nijushiho
Originally named ‘ Niseishi ‘ but renamed to ‘ Nijushiho ‘ after the number of foot movements performed, ( Twenty Four Steps ). This kata depicts the waves breaking upon the shore, instantly and calmly changing direction from forward to backward motion. ‘ Nijushiho ‘ should mirror this with each technique performed moving serenely into the next. The fast and slow along with the power should also copy that of a rivers flow with great speed and power moving into great depth and calmness.
Sochin
“Strength and Calmness” Fudo-dachi is prevalent in this kata. The slow performance of techniques amplifies the power shown during the gradual muscle contraction combined with the instant power produced with rapid movement. ‘ Sochin ‘ develops a great feeling of strong mindedness. Once known as “Hakko”, “Sochin” mainly depicts the defense against a staff.
Jiin
Another kata from the Chinese temple of ‘ Jion-Ji ‘. The translation to Temple Grounds is another reference to the kata’s monastic roots. Movements in ‘ Jiin ‘ should be performed in a smooth and gentle manner, yet with great strength and spirit.
Chinte
“Chinte” or Extra-ordinary Hands is of Chinese origin. Noted for its use of circular motions unlike the majority of Shotokan techniques which utilizes more direct movements.
Gankaku
“Crane Standing On A Rock” Formerly known as ‘ Chinto ‘, ‘ Gankaku ‘ uses a straight line embusen. Control of balance is very important in this kata.
Unsu
“Cloud Hands” Great number of varied techniques including light and fast movement, whilst utilizing great timing and strategy with constantly changing directions in response to a skillful opponent. “Unsu” travels to the extremes in karate from the urgency of rapid blocks and counter-attacks to the calm serenity of control.
Gojushiho Sho/Dai
Two of the longest Kata in Karate, originally named ‘Hotaku’, these kata are now both longer than their original 54 steps. Both Kata are full of varied and flowing techniques, good balance and turning control is vital in the performance of both Dai and Sho.
Meikyo
“Bright Shinning Mirror” “Meikyo” has a mellow feeling of gentleness and understanding coupled with a serene, peaceful and calm performance. A highlight of the kata is the ‘SANKAKU-TOBI’ (Triangular Jump), although a very difficult technique to perform it will enable a karateka to quickly turn disadvantage into an advantage.
Wankan
“Kings Crown” One of the shortest kata, thought by many never to have been completed due to this fact. Wankan’s level of difficulty is reflected in both the kata’s length and simplicity of technique which require great understanding, maturity and knowledge to be appreciated by both performer and spectator alike.