New Version of Kata Performed by Sensei M. Kawawada JKA

There is some evidence that this Kata was devised by Ankichi Aragaki, and for some time it was known asHakko. The development within Shotokan seems to owe much influence of Yoshitaka (Gigo) Funakoshi.

The most obvious feature of this Kata is the prominence given to the practice of Fudo-dachi, or Sochin-dachi, the 'rooted' or 'immovable' stance.

Sharing some similarities with Hangetsu, the feeling of the this Kata is of being calmly and powerfully rooted to the earth, unmoveable in the face of the greatest danger (Fudo-shin), and the strong stable stance provides a powerful base for the resistance of attacks from all quarters.

The execution of this Kata should not be rushed, but should demonstrate the shift from relaxed awareness to full tension. In some instances this should be a gradual process, and in others an instantaneous shift.

In parts there should be a sense of pressing home a succession of counterattacks which allow the opponent no time to respond.