Origins of Okinawan Kata

Please note that this is our associations understanding of just some of the katas used in our syllabus. The information may possibly appear to be incorrect to some visitors to the site.

Kata’s are defined as sequences of movements for offence and defence applied against the simultaneous attack of more than one opponent. The practice of katas is usually carried out against imaginary opponents. Time spent correcting mistakes as a kata is learnt in the dojo is often more productive than learning an entire kata and then making the corrections afterwards.

Gekusai Dai Ichi & Gekusai Dai Ni

They were created by Chojun Miyagi in 1940 as beginner katas and originate from the Naha–Te style of karate. Gekusai means “attack and smash”. They are generally some of the first to be learned in most Okinawan styles of karate.

Pinan Nidan

Part of the Pinan group of katas (of which there are five), were created by Anko Itosu in about 1905 and originate from the Shuri–Te style of karate. Pinan Nidan means “peaceful mind two” and was taught to elementary school children in Okinawa.

Saifa

This kata originates from the Naha–Te style of karate. It was brought over from China by Kanryo Higaonna and translates as “smash and tear”.

Naihanchi

The origin of Naihanchi is unknown, although it is believed to be in use before the Pinans. It is usually acredited to being created by Master Matsumora. When translated it means “fighting holding your ground”.

Seiunchin

This kata originates from China and probably comes from the Hsing-I internal system. It was introduced by Kanryo Higaonna and translates as “Control, Suppress and Pull”.

Sanchin

This kata was brought back from China by Kanryo Higaonna. It translates as “three battles” and tackles the body, mind and spirit. It is considered to be the fundamental kata of the Goju-Ryu system.

Shisouinchin

This kata was taught to Kanryo Higaonna by Ryu Ryuku and is of Chinese origin. It translates as “Four Gates” or “Four Directions of Conflict”. He taught this to Chojun Miyagi whom considered this to be his favourite kata, especially in his later life.

Sanseiryu

This kata was taught by Kanryo Higaonna. It translates as “36 Hands” and is sometimes referred to as the dragon kata.

Tensho

This kata was invented by Chojun Miyagi and translates as “Turning Palms”. He adapted it from the Rokkishu of White Crane.

Sepai

This kata was brought back from China by Kanryo Higaonna. It translates as “18 hands” and is considered a continuation kata to Seisan.

Seisan

This is probably the oldest kata still in use today. It was brought over from China to Okinawa in the 18th century by a Chinese martial artist of the same name. It translates to the number “13” or “30”. It is known to have been performed by Bushi Matsumura, Yasutsune Itosu, Chotoku Kyan (who perfected the kata over a period of 2 years), who are considered among the greatest karate men in history.

Kururunfa

This is another kata brought back from China by Kanryo Higaonna. Kururunfa is an advanced kata which features Tai Sabaki (evasive manoeuvres) with very fast movements.

Suparinpei

This kata originated from China. Unfortunately it is unclear by whom, although it was taught by Kanryo Higaonna. It translates as “108 hands”.