← Back to martial art

General overview of grades

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

Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu, founded by Izasa Ienao in 1447, is Japan's oldest documented koryu tradition (National Treasure). Its licensure cascade (Kirigami, Mokuroku, Menkyo, Menkyo Kaiden) evaluates Kenjutsu sword, Iaijutsu, Bojutsu staff, Naginatajutsu, Sojutsu spear, and throwing spikes.

Kirigami (Entry Scroll)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Keishoin blood oath, basic Tachijutsu sword stances, and 4 Omote Iai/Kenjutsu kata.

Symbolism & Meaning

Oldest documented Japanese koryu school founded by Izasa Ienao in 1447.

Mokuroku (Full Catalog Scroll)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Advanced Gokyo sword cuts, Kodachi short sword, Ryoto two-swords, and Bojutsu staff.

Symbolism & Meaning

Official scroll confirming mastery of comprehensive samurai weapon arsenal.

Menkyo (Teaching License)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Naginatajutsu halberd, Sojutsu spear, Shurikenjutsu, and military strategy.

Symbolism & Meaning

Teaching license authorizing instruction of complete koryu curriculum.

Shihan (Senior Master)

Typical gap since previous grade: 96 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Knowledge of secret Chikujo-jutsu (fortification), Ninjutsu, astrology, and feng-shui.

Symbolism & Meaning

Senior Shihan responsible for preserving Japan's intangible cultural heritage.

Menkyo Kaiden (Full Transmission)

免許皆伝Rank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 120 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable koryu scroll. Complete transmission of Izasa lineage with honors.

Symbolism & Meaning

Menkyo Kaiden = Supreme living authority of Katori Shinto-ryu in the world.