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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Kashima Shin-ryu, an ancient samurai koryu school formalized in 16th-century Japan, is renowned for its rigorous sword theory and martial mechanics. Its 5-license structure (Shoden to Menkyo Kaiden) evaluates Seigan stances, Fukuro-shinai and Bokken paired kata, Bojutsu staff, and Sojutsu spear.

Shoden (Beginning Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Seigan no Kamae stances, paired Kihon Dachi kata, & Fukuro Shinai slashes.

Symbolism & Meaning

Ancient samurai koryu school (Kunii clan) founded in the 15th century.

Chuden (Middle Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Advanced Ura Tachi counters, Bojutsu staff training, & Naginatajutsu halberd.

Symbolism & Meaning

Deepening fluid force flow between sword and traditional auxiliary weapons.

Okuden (Deep Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Short staff Jojutsu forms, armored Jujutsu grappling, & Tanto knife combat.

Symbolism & Meaning

Secret combat applications designed for survival on medieval battlefields.

Menkyo (Teaching License / Shihan)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Mastery of complete Kashima Shin-ryu Densho scroll & dōjō instruction.

Symbolism & Meaning

Shihan = Licensed instructor of Kunii clan and Dr. Karl Friday lineage.

Menkyo Kaiden (Full Transmission)

免許皆伝Rank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 120 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest koryu scroll. Living Soke and absolute global guarantor of the tradition.

Symbolism & Meaning

Menkyo Kaiden = Supreme living representative and head of Kashima Shin-ryu.