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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.

Shindo Yoshin-ryu Jujutsu (New Willow Heart School), founded by Matsuoka Katsunosuke in 1864 during late Edo Japan, is the renowned koryu tradition from which Hironori Otsuka derived Wado-ryu Karate. Its 5-license structure (Shoden to Menkyo Kaiden) evaluates moving joint dislocations, Taisabaki body evasions, Kumiuchi throws, and Kenjutsu sword fencing.

Shoden (Beginning Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

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

Symbolism & Meaning

1864 koryu school founded by Matsuoka Katsunosuke, ancestor of Wado-ryu Karate.

Chuden (Middle Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Fluid Taisabaki body evasions, Kumitachi sword forms, and moving joint locks.

Symbolism & Meaning

Deepening principle of resilient willow (Yoshin) yielding to attack force.

Okuden (Deep Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Unarmed sword defense Muto Dori, Battojutsu sword drawing, and Tanto knife.

Symbolism & Meaning

Secret samurai techniques to neutralize an opponent in close-quarters.

Menkyo (Teaching License / Shihan)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

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

Symbolism & Meaning

Shihan = Licensed master and guarantor of Takamura Shindo Yoshin-ryu (TSYR).

Menkyo Kaiden (Full Transmission)

免許皆伝Rank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 120 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest koryu scroll. Living Soke (Tobin Threadgill) and global guarantor.

Symbolism & Meaning

Menkyo Kaiden = Supreme living representative and Headmaster of TSYR tradition.