ShotokanKarateKata
形 - The Forms of Power
Explore the essence of Shotokan through26 traditional kata forms that embody centuries of wisdom.
Heian Series
Tekki Series
Advanced Kata
Shorin & Shorei
Shotokan Karate is comprised of 26 core kata, categorized into 2 types 'Shorin' and 'Shorei'.
Shorin kata movements are performed with the mind and bodyset of being flexible, soft and slow, with quick sharp movements.
Shorei kata movements are performed with the mind and bodyset of being strong, solid, with solid movements, strong-hard foundation.
| Kata Name | # of Moves | Kiai at Move # | Kata Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heian Shodan | 21 | 9, 17 | Peaceful Mind |
| Heian Nidan | 26 | 11, 26 | Peaceful Mind Level 2 |
| Heian Sandan | 20 | 10, 20 | Peaceful Mind Level 3 |
| Heian Yondan | 27 | 13, 25 | Peaceful Mind Level 4 |
| Heian Godan | 23 | 12, 19 | Peaceful Mind Level 5 |
| Bassai Dai | 42 | 19, 42 | Penetrating the Fortress – Big |
| Kanku Dai | 65 | 15, 65 | Look to the Sky – Big |
| Empi | 37 | 16, 36 | Flying Swallow |
| Gankaku | 42 | 28, 42 | Crane on a Rock |
| Bassai Sho | 27 | 17, 22 | Penetrating the Fortress – Small |
| Kanku Sho | 48 | 6, 48 | Look to the Sky – Small |
| Unsu | 48 | 36, 48 | Parting the Clouds |
| Nijushiho | 24 | 18, 23 | Twenty-four Steps |
| Wankan | 24 | 24 | Kings and Crown |
| Chinte | 32 | 28, 32 | Rare Hands |
| Gojushiho Dai | 67 | 59, 66 | Fifty-four Steps – Big |
| Gojushiho Sho | 65 | 57, 64 | Fifty-four Steps – Small |