Shotokan Karate Grading Examination Regulations

Association: Japan Karate-Do Shotokan Study Association

Style: Traditional Shotokan Karate-Do

1. Purpose of the Examination

The purpose of the grading (Dan & Kyu) examination is to evaluate the technical ability, spirit, discipline, and character of the candidate in accordance with the principles of Shotokan Karate-Do.

2. Examination Criteria (All Grades)

Candidates are evaluated on the following areas:

Kihon (Basics) – posture, stance, balance, power, and correctness

Kata – accuracy, rhythm, embusen, kime, and zanshin

Kumite – distance (maai), timing, control, spirit, and safety

Reiho & Attitude – etiquette, respect, discipline, and humility

3. KYU GRADE EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS

9th Kyu (Beginner)

Kihon: Zenkutsu-dachi, Gedan-barai, Age-uke, Oi-zuki

Kata: Taikyoku Shodan

Kumite: Not required

Evaluation Focus: Balance, posture, discipline

8th Kyu

Kihon: Soto-uke, Gyaku-zuki, Mae-geri

Kata: Heian Shodan

Kumite: Gohon Kumite

Evaluation Focus: Coordination, basic power

7th Kyu

Kihon: Uchi-uke, Yoko-geri Keage

Kata: Heian Nidan

Kumite: Gohon Kumite

Evaluation Focus: Rhythm, correct embusen

6th Kyu

Kihon: Shuto-uke, Mawashi-geri

Kata: Heian Sandan

Kumite: Sanbon Kumite

Evaluation Focus: Smooth transitions, control

5th Kyu

Kihon: Combination techniques

Kata: Heian Yondan

Kumite: Sanbon Kumite

Evaluation Focus: Speed, stability, breathing

4th Kyu

Kata: Heian Godan

Kumite: Kihon Ippon Kumite

Evaluation Focus: Timing (Maai), sharpness

3rd Kyu

Kata: Tekki Shodan

Kumite: Jiyu Ippon Kumite

Evaluation Focus: Hip movement, strong stance

2nd Kyu

Kata: Bassai Dai

Kumite: Jiyu Ippon Kumite

Evaluation Focus: Power generation, spirit

1st Kyu

Kata: Kanku Dai

Kumite: Jiyu Kumite

Evaluation Focus: Readiness for Dan grade

4. DAN GRADE EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS

1st Dan (Shodan)

Kata: Tekki Nidan or equivalent

Kumite: Jiyu Kumite (multiple rounds)

Theory: Dojo Kun, basic history

Evaluation Focus: Control, calm mind

2nd Dan (Nidan)

Kata: Jion or Hangetsu

Kumite: Advanced Jiyu Kumite

Evaluation Focus: Technical refinement

3rd Dan (Sandan)

Kata: Enpi or Gankaku

Evaluation Focus: Timing, tactical understanding

4th Dan (Yondan)

Kata: Sochin or Nijushiho

Additional: Teaching ability

5th Dan (Godan)

Kata: Unsu or Chinte

Evaluation Focus: Deep understanding of Karate-Do

6th Dan (Rokudan)

Evaluation Based On: 

Senior kata demonstration

Technical leadership

Contribution to Karate-Do

7th Dan (Nanadan)

Evaluation Based On: 

Lifetime contribution

Teaching legacy

Moral character and