Yudansha Dan Grading System
Shodan 初段:しょだん
1st Degree- In this level necessitates a further development of abilities. All basic movements and techniques, can be applied with extended force and proper application in basic combination.
Nidan 二段:にだん
2nd Degree- This level requires the personal assimilation and performance of all basic body movements and techniques to such a degree that their application is in accordance with the individuals own unique body demands.
Sandan 三段:さんだん
3rd Degree- At this level the individual has acquired the understanding of the underlying principles in all basic body movements and techniques. Moreover, this understanding can be demonstrated in the application of techniques under various circumstances and conditions
Yondan 四段:よだん
4th Degree- In this point the individual attaining this standing has exemplified knowledge of the principle body movements and techniques and their application under varied conditions to such a degree that the ability to instruct others has been gained.
Godan 五段:ごだん
5th Degree- This is the level were in research has been completed in some limited area. This research includes its application in a manner that is both relevant and applicable to the individual's particular physique.
Rokudan 六段:ろくだん
6th Degree- The attainment of this position necessitates the performance of karate research in an area that by its nature has universal benefits to be derived by its application.
Kodansha Senior-Dan Grading System
Shichidan 七段:ななだん
7th Degree- At this level, the individual must have undertaken advance research through actual application and extensive testing of the general research technique.
Hachidan 八段:はちだん
8th Degree- At this point, research must have been completed in a new and previously unknown area.
Kudan 九段:くだん
9th Degree- This level the requirements for this standard calls for an uncommon dedication for an extended period of time to the areas of individual achievement and development of the highest and most extraordinary order. Moreover, this accumulated knowledge and expertise must have been utilized in the general service of karate development.
Judan 十段:じゅうだん
10th Degree- This is the stage where the individual has finally neared the highest image of karate development. This has been brought about by the continuous practice and pursuit of the truth that is to be found in the human ideal.
