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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.

Suio-ryu Iai Kenpo, founded by Mima Yoichizaemon Kagenobu in 1615 during the early Edo period following waterfall meditation, is a comprehensive samurai koryu school. Its 5-license structure (Shoden to Menkyo Kaiden) evaluates Iaijutsu quick-drawing (Goyo kata), Kenjutsu fencing, Jojutsu staff, Naginata, and Kogusoku grappling.

Shoden (Beginning Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Kamae stances, Goyo sword drawing, and cuts from Seiza & walking.

Symbolism & Meaning

Koryu school founded by Mima Kagenobu in 17th century by flowing water.

Chuden (Middle Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Kogusoku short sword grappling, Naginatajutsu halberd, and rapid Iai counters.

Symbolism & Meaning

Suio = Water flowing like seagulls soaring over cresting waves.

Okuden (Deep Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Wakizashi short sword combat, armored Kumiuchi grappling, and Jo staff.

Symbolism & Meaning

Secret samurai techniques to neutralize opponent in full gear.

Mokuroku (Catalog Scroll)

Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Official Suio-ryu koryu technique scroll. Authorization to instruct in dōjō.

Symbolism & Meaning

Scroll confirming deep knowledge of Katsuse Kagehiro Soke's lineage.

Menkyo Kaiden (Full Transmission)

免許皆伝Rank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 72 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest koryu scroll. Living Soke and absolute global guarantor of Suio-ryu.

Symbolism & Meaning

Menkyo Kaiden = Supreme living representative and 15th Soke of Suio-ryu.