Complete Shotokan Karate Kata Curriculum
This comprehensive kata list follows the traditional Shotokan karate progression from white belt to black belt. Each kata is presented with instructional videos to aid in your training and practice.
The first kata in the Shotokan curriculum. Taikyoku Shodan introduces basic stances, blocks, and strikes in a simple pattern.
At this level, students focus on basic techniques and fundamentals.
The first of the Heian (Peaceful Mind) kata series. This kata introduces more complex movements and combinations.
The second Heian kata introduces more advanced techniques and combinations.
The third Heian kata continues to build complexity with new techniques and patterns.
The fourth Heian kata introduces more advanced stances and techniques.
The final Heian kata completes the basic kata series with advanced techniques and combinations.
The first Tekki (Iron Horse) kata, performed in horse stance with powerful techniques.
A powerful kata meaning "To Penetrate a Fortress" with dynamic movements and strong techniques.
A kata with slow, controlled movements emphasizing breathing and internal power.
The second Tekki kata with more complex movements while maintaining horse stance.
A dynamic kata meaning "To View the Sky" with powerful jumping and striking techniques.
A complex kata with 108 movements, representing the 108 defilements in Buddhism.
The final Tekki kata with the most complex movements in horse stance.
A kata meaning "Flying Swallow" with quick, darting movements and jumping techniques.
A kata named after the Jion temple, featuring strong, direct movements.
A kata meaning "Ten Hands" emphasizing defense against multiple attackers.
A kata meaning "Crane on a Rock" with balancing techniques and precise movements.
A kata meaning "Half Moon" with circular movements and breathing techniques.
A shorter version of Bassai Dai with refined techniques.
A shorter version of Kanku Dai with more refined movements.
A kata with unusual techniques including circular hand movements.
A kata meaning "Bright Mirror" with polished, refined techniques.
A shorter version of Gojushiho Dai with 54 movements.
A kata with unique movements and techniques.
A kata with three-part movements and complex techniques.
A kata emphasizing strong, rooted stances and powerful techniques.
A kata with precise, controlled movements and breathing techniques.
A kata with 24 movements emphasizing fluid transitions.
A kata meaning "Cloud Hands" with complex hand movements and techniques.
A kata meaning "King's Crown" with royal, dignified movements.
A kata with 54 movements, the longer version of Gojushiho.
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