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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.

Kyushin-ryu Jujutsu, founded by Inugai Garui in 16th-century Japan, is a renowned samurai koryu school emphasizing Atemi-waza pressure point strikes and close-quarters joint grappling. Its 5-license hierarchy (Shoden to Menkyo Kaiden) evaluates armored throws, ground joint dislocations, Katsu resuscitation, and Tanto dagger combat.

Shoden (Beginning Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Ukemi falls, Nage-waza standing throws, & 16th-century Atemi vital strikes.

Symbolism & Meaning

Ancient koryu school founded by Inugami Gunbei specialized in moving joint locks.

Chuden (Middle Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Advanced Shime-waza chokes, Kansetsu-waza joint locks, & Ne-waza ground combat.

Symbolism & Meaning

Kyushin = Sphere perceived as source of fluidly off-balancing opponent.

Okuden (Deep Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Armored grappling Yoroi Kumiuchi, Tanto dagger combat, & katana disarms.

Symbolism & Meaning

Secret samurai techniques to neutralize an opponent on the battlefield.

Mokuroku (Catalog Scroll / Shihan)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Official technique scroll. Authorization to lead dōjō in Inugami lineage.

Symbolism & Meaning

Shihan = Licensed master and keeper of Kyushin-ryu Jujutsu tradition.

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 Soke and representative of Kyushin-ryu Jujutsu.