Shotokan Karate Ranks

Ranks are measurements that show proficiency. The early ranks, called the kyu (級) levels, are based upon the understanding and ability to execute fundamentals. Ranks are achieved by testing; each rank has its own special test which involves the execution of certain fundamentals (kihon and kumite) and a kata designed for the rank. Kata is a predefined sequence of karate forms that help the student practice balance, timing and transitions to leverage the power potential of the body.

級 There are ten kyu rankings:

kyu	Belt	Description	Testing Guidelines
10th	white	Beginning kyu	9th kyu test
9th	yellow	Learned Heian Shodan kata	8th kyu test
8th	orange	Learned Heian Shodan kata	7th kyu test
7th	blue	Learned Heian Nidan kata	6th kyu test
6th	green	Learned Heian Sandan kata	5th kyu test
5th	purple	Learned Heian Yondan kata	4th kyu test
4th	purple	Learned Heian Godan kata	3rd kyu test
3rd	brown	Learned Tekki Shodan kata	2nd kyu test
2nd	brown	Learned Bassai Dai kata	1st kyu test
1st	brown	Proficient in all kyu kata	Shodan test

Karate practitioners (karateka) who have become proficient in the fundamentals have the opportunity to test for black belt. In Shotokan Karate there are ten Dan (段) levels of black belt. As with kyu, black belt levels measure proficiency. The highest level 10 (Judan) is traditionally used to designate the singular head of Shotokan Karate.

段 The ten Dan levels or degrees:

Dan Level	Description	Testing Guidelines
Shodan (1st degree)	Mastery of basics	Shodan test
Nidan (2nd degree)		Nidan test
Sandan (3rd degree)	Chief instructor (sensei)	Sandan test
Yondan (4th degree)		Yondan test
Godan (5th degree)		Godan test
Rokudan (6th degree)	Master instructor (shihan)	Rokudan test
Schichidan (7th degree)
Hachidan (8th degree)
Kudan (9th degree)
Judan (10th degree)	Singular head of Shotokan Karate