Shotokan Karate is a Japanese karate style founded by Gichin Funakoshi and later systematised by his son Yoshitaka Funakoshi.
Core Philosophy
Shotokan emphasizes:
- Ikken hissatsu – “One strike, certain kill.”
- Kime – explosive focus of power at the moment of impact
- Maai – distance control
- Zanshin – continued awareness after attack
Technically it is known for:
- Long, deep stances
- Linear attacks
- Explosive hip rotation
- Highly structured kata curriculum
The Complete 26 Shotokan Kata (and what each teaches)
Shotokan kata is a progressive curriculum of combat principles.
Beginner Kata
1–5. Heian Series
Develops fundamentals.
| Kata | Core Lesson |
| Heian Shodan | Basic stance stability and blocking mechanics |
| Heian Nidan | Coordinating upper/lower body movement |
| Heian Sandan | Hip rotation and elbow strikes |
| Heian Yondan | Multi-directional awareness |
| Heian Godan | Jumping, evasion, counterattack timing |
Intermediate Kata
| Kata | Main Principles |
| Tekki Shodan | Close-range fighting, lateral movement |
| Tekki Nidan | Internal power generation |
| Tekki Sandan | Grappling-range striking |
| Bassai Dai | Breaking through defences |
| Bassai Sho | Fast explosive counters |
| Kanku Dai | Strategic long-range combat |
| Kanku Sho | Speed and timing |
| Empi | Dynamic level changes |
| Hangetsu | Breathing and tension power |
| Jion | Balanced power and technique |
| Jitte | Defense against weapons |
| Jiin | Calm rhythm and structure |
Advanced Kata
| Kata | Focus |
| Gankaku | Balance and one-leg stability |
| Sochin | Rooted power |
| Nijushiho | Flowing hand techniques |
| Meikyo | Precision and clarity |
| Chinte | Unusual hand techniques |
| Wankan | Compact high-level strategy |
| Unsu | Complex footwork and spinning techniques |
| Gojushiho Dai | Advanced hand control |
| Gojushiho Sho | Close combat tactics |