Shito ryu Belt Rankings

The coloured belt system is unique to Japanese martial arts and signifies an individual's development withing that particular style of karate. In Kofukan we operate the Kyu - Dan system with dan grades represented by a black belt (kuro obi). The kyu grades have different coloured belts which are tested for approximately every three to six months. Tests incorporate all elements of the KIHON - KATA - KUMITE system (Fundamental or basic techniques - Prearranged Forms - Sparring).

The Kyu colour belt system is as follows:

White Belt - Beginner (not tested)

Yellow Stripe Belt - 8th KYU

Yellow Belt - 7th KYU

Orange Belt - 6th KYU

Green Belt - 5th KYU

Purple Belt - 4th KYU

Brown Belt - 3rd KYU

Brown Belt - 2nd KYU

Brown Belt - 1st KYU

Juniors under 16 have an additional striped belt between the 6th to 3rd kyu grades eg Orange stripe, Green stripe, Purple stripe, Brown stripe which are taken before the full colur belt is achieved.

The Dan Grade system is as follows:

Black Belt - 1st Dan

Black Belt - 2nd Dan (typically 2 years minimum after 1st Dan)

Black Belt - 3rd Dan (typically 3 years minimum after 2nd dan)

Black Belt - 4th Dan (typically 4 years after 3rd dan)

Black Belt - 5th Dan (typically 5 years after 4th dan)

Black Belt - 6th Dan

Black Belt - 7th Dan

Black Belt - 8th Dan