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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.

Shinno Shinto-ryu Jujutsu, founded by Yamamoto Kazaemon in 16th-century Japan, is a classical samurai koryu school emphasizing Atemi-waza pressure point striking and close-quarters joint dislocation. Its 5-license hierarchy (Shoden to Menkyo Kaiden) evaluates Kumiuchi throws, ground joint locking, Katsu resuscitation, and Tanto combat.

Shoden (Beginning Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Kamae stances, standing/kneeling Jujutsu grappling, and Atemi strikes.

Symbolism & Meaning

Ancient Edo period koryu school founded by Yamamoto Tamazaemon in the 17th century.

Chuden (Middle Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Destructive Kansetsu-waza joint locks, Shime-waza chokes, and takedowns.

Symbolism & Meaning

Deepening fluid transition from body core into wrist joint locks.

Okuden (Deep Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Armored grappling Yoroi Kumiuchi, Tanto dagger combat, and katana disarming.

Symbolism & Meaning

Secret samurai techniques to neutralize an opponent in full battlefield armor.

Mokuroku (Catalog Scroll)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

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

Symbolism & Meaning

Shihan = Licensed master and keeper of Shinno Shinto-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 Shinno Shinto-ryu.