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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.

Yagyu Shingan-ryu, founded by Takenaga Hayato in 17th-century Edo Japan, is a famous samurai koryu school specializing in armored grapple combat (Yoroi Kumiuchi). Its 5-license hierarchy (Shoden to Menkyo Kaiden) evaluates armored takedowns, joint dislocations, Kenjutsu sword, Bojutsu staff, and Naginata.

Shoden (Beginning Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Kamae stances in heavy armor, Ukemi breakfalls, & 17th-century Taijutsu strikes.

Symbolism & Meaning

Ancient Edo period koryu school founded by Takenaga Hayato specialized in Kumiuchi.

Chuden (Middle Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Armored grappling Yoroi Kumiuchi, shoulder joint locks, and katana strikes.

Symbolism & Meaning

Utilizing armor weight and hardness to crush attacker's center of gravity.

Okuden (Deep Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Kodachi short sword combat, emergency Iaijutsu sword drawing, & disarming.

Symbolism & Meaning

Secret combat applications intended for bodyguards and dueling engagements.

Mokuroku (Catalog Scroll)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Official Yagyu Shingan technique scroll. Authorization to instruct in Sendai/Edo line.

Symbolism & Meaning

Shihan = Licensed master of the Yagyu Shingan-ryu koryu 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 representative and head of Yagyu Shingan-ryu.