Seisan Kata’s Purpose, Practice, and History

Are you interested in the history of martial arts?

Want to learn more about kata?

Kata means “form” in Japanese. In martial arts, a kata is a set of choreographed movements used for practice. Seisan kata is a type of kata with its own distinct movements and is one of the oldest kata that is still taught today. Its history can be traced back to Okinawan karate in the 18-19th century. 

Okinawan karate actually originated in China. During this time, many martial artists were traveling to China and bringing back new and different moves to Japan, so it’s unclear who exactly created Seisan kata. This form was also practiced by all three style of Okinawan karate – Shuri-te, Tomari-te, and Naha-te. Each style credited the kata to a different person. As time went on, the exact moves of the Seisan kata became different for each style of karate, so it’s also unclear which version of Seisan kata is the original. 

The way “seisan” is written in Kanji can translate to the number 13, which is a lucky number, or as “10 hands and 3,” referring to Seisan’s 10 fighting sequences that are usually repeated 3 times. Seisan has a range of techniques, consisting of punches, kicks, locks, throws, and strikes. The sequences of Seisan kata flow together like a musical composition. There are slow, melodic segments that allow you to reflect and fast intense moments that challenge you.

Watch Suino Sensei practice Seisan Kata: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAEv7sxHLpI

Seisan kata is difficult and meant for more advanced students, sometimes being taught at the black belt level. Many modern styles of karate use Seisan kata, such as:

  • Goju Ryu
  • Wado Ryu
  • Seidokan
  • Uechi Ryu & more
Suino sensei practicing seisan kata | Karate Ann Arbor

Learn Seisan Kata with Goju Ryu Karate in Ann Arbor

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