型 Kata: Shotokan Forms

Kata are pre-arranged sequences of techniques performed against imaginary opponents. Each kata tells a story of combat and encodes generations of martial wisdom. In Shotokan karate, kata training develops timing, breathing, rhythm, and the ability to transition between techniques with power and precision.

White / Yellow

平安初段 Heian Shodan

21 movements

The first kata learned in Shotokan. It introduces basic blocks (gedan barai, age uke), the lunge punch (oi zuki), and the front stance (zenkutsu dachi). It teaches you to move in straight lines with confidence.

Yellow / Orange

平安二段 Heian Nidan

26 movements

Builds on Shodan by adding side kicks (yoko geri), back-fist strikes (uraken), and the back stance (kokutsu dachi). It introduces the concept of changing stances mid-combination.

Orange / Green

平安三段 Heian Sandan

20 movements

Introduces the horse stance (kiba dachi), simultaneous block-and-strike techniques, and the elbow strike (empi uchi). The shortest of the Heian series but technically demanding.

Green / Blue

平安四段 Heian Yondan

27 movements

Features open-hand techniques (shuto uke), knee kicks (hiza geri), and the cross-arm block (juji uke). It demands greater balance and introduces slow, tension-filled movements alongside fast combinations.

Blue / Purple

平安五段 Heian Godan

23 movements

The most advanced Heian kata. It includes a jump (tobi), the cross block in a crouching position, and fluid transitions between stances. Mastery of this kata is typically required before reaching brown belt.

Brown / Black

披塞大 Bassai Dai

42 movements

Meaning 'to storm a fortress,' Bassai Dai is one of the most popular Shotokan katas. It emphasises powerful hip rotation, strong blocks converting to attacks, and changes from defensive to offensive attitude. Often the first choice for Shodan examination.

Brown / Black

慈恩 Jion

47 movements

Named after the Jion Buddhist temple, this kata focuses on strong, grounded techniques and direct power. It uses many fundamental techniques in complex combinations, making it an excellent test of kihon mastery under pressure.

Brown / Black

燕飛 Empi

37 movements

Meaning 'flight of the swallow,' Empi is characterised by fast, dynamic movements including a dramatic 360-degree turn and jump. It alternates between high and low positions with quick directional changes, reflecting the darting flight of a swallow.

Brown / Black

観空大 Kanku Dai

65 movements

The longest standard Shotokan kata. Its name means 'viewing the sky' — the opening move involves looking up through the hands. Kanku Dai contains nearly every technique found in the Heian series and is considered the most comprehensive kata in the syllabus.

How to Practice Kata

  • Learn the embusen — the performance line or floor pattern of the kata.
  • Start slow — focus on correct form, stance transitions, and breathing before adding speed.
  • Visualise opponents — every block, strike, and kick has a purpose. Imagine the attacker.
  • Use kime — each technique should finish with a sharp focus of energy.
  • Record yourself — compare your form against the videos above and refine continuously.
  • © No copyright infringement intended — All copyright belongs to the original creators of the kata and the performers in the videos. This page is for educational purposes only.