Hanshi
範士
The highest of the three shogo teaching titles, next to renshi and kyoshi. In kendo it can be earned no sooner than eight years after kyoshi and eighth dan.
Quick Facts
Word breakdown
Definition
Hanshi (範士) consists of the characters 範, model, example, and 士, man, warrior. It is the highest of the three shogo teaching titles awarded in Japanese martial arts alongside the technical dan grades: renshi, kyoshi and hanshi. The title denotes not technical level but maturity as a teacher and as a person. The conditions differ by organization. In kendo, where the All Japan Kendo Federation awards the titles, the holder of kyoshi and eighth dan may apply for hanshi after eight years at the earliest. He must pass an assessment, obtain a recommendation from the chairman of the regional and national organization, and pass an examination in kendo theory.
Relations to other terms
See also
The second of the three shogo teaching titles, between renshi and hanshi. In kendo, a holder of renshi and seventh dan can reach it after two years at the earliest.
Dan段A master grade in Japanese and Korean martial arts, usually with a black belt. First awarded in 1883 by Kano Jigoro in judo.
Shihan師範An honorary title of a high-ranking teacher. Literally “exemplary teacher”. Who receives it and under what conditions differs by organization.
Sensei先生Japanese form of address for a teacher, literally “one who was born earlier”. In the dojo it goes to the training leader, in Japan also to a doctor or lawyer.