Shihan
師範
An honorary title of a high-ranking teacher. Literally “exemplary teacher”. Who receives it and under what conditions differs by organization.
Quick Facts
Word breakdown
Definition
Shihan (師範) is made up of the characters shi (teacher) and han (model). The title denotes an experienced teacher who sets an example for other teachers. In Japanese the word generally means an instructor or master, for example in the traditional arts. In the martial arts, the title shihan is awarded by an organization, usually to high-ranking dan holders. The rules differ. In some organizations the title is tied to a certain dan grade, in others the leadership awards it for merit. So one cannot say that shihan corresponds to a particular grade across the arts.
Relations to other terms
Often confused with
See also
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.
Kancho館長Title of the head of a dojo or of an entire organization, literally “head of the building.” Used mainly in karate organizations.
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.