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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.

Kosen Judo, developed across seven Japanese imperial universities since 1914, uses a traditional cascade from 6th to 1st Kyu and master Dans. Unlike Olympic Judo, it focuses on academic ground grappling (Ne-waza)—guard pulling (Hikikomi), chokeholds, armbars, and pin controls.

6th Kyu – Rokkyu (White Belt)

Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Ukemi breakfalls, Shisei stances, and initial Ne-waza ground transitions.

Symbolism & Meaning

Traditional university academic ground grappling style of Kosen Judo.

5th Kyu – Gokyu (Yellow Belt)

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Osaekomi-waza holddowns (Kesa-gatame) and pin control foundations.

Symbolism & Meaning

Solidifying body control over the opponent on the tatami.

4th Kyu – Yonkyu (Orange Belt)

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Kansetsu-waza armbars (Juji-gatame) and immediate sacrifice takedowns.

Symbolism & Meaning

Developing fluid guard pulling Hikikomi transitions into Ne-waza.

3rd Kyu – Sankyu (Green Belt)

Typical gap since previous grade: 9 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Shime-waza chokes (Hadaka-jime, Sankaku-jime triangle) and bottom guard attacks.

Symbolism & Meaning

Complex tactical submission grappling combinations in Kosen ring.

2nd Kyu – Nikyu (Blue Belt)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Transitions from pin to submission, escape counters, and Randori sparring.

Symbolism & Meaning

High ability to maintain continuous pressure in ground grappling.

1st Kyu – Ikkyu (Brown Belt)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Pre-master rank. Katame-no-kata grappling forms and Shodan exam prep.

Symbolism & Meaning

Complete mastery of all 15 core Katame-no-kata submission forms.

1st Dan – Shodan (Black Belt)

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Full master rank. Teaching authority in Kosen university grappling teams.

Symbolism & Meaning

Shodan = Black belt confirming academic Ne-waza master status.

2nd Dan – Nidan

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Specialized guard passing & defense variations and competition refereeing.

Symbolism & Meaning

Nidan = Second master degree developing tactical overview in tournaments.

3rd Dan – Sandan (Senior Master)

Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Senior master rank. Leading Seven Universities Tournament (Nanadai) teams.

Symbolism & Meaning

Sandan = Head coach and guardian of the traditional Nanadai academic competition.