Kata, the structured forms in Wado-Ryu Karate, are the foundation for developing physical technique
and mental discipline. Each kata is a meticulously crafted sequence of movements. Embodies the
principles, strategies, and spirit of Wado-Ryu. These forms teach practitioners to combine strikes,
blocks, stances, and footwork into a flowing, dynamic series of techniques, simulating combat
against multiple opponents.
Pinan Nidan (Japanese: ピナン二段) is the second kata in the Pinan series of Wado-Ryu Karate, initially
introduced by Master Hironori Otsuka. Pinan Nidan builds upon the foundation established in Pinan
Shodan, introducing more advanced movements and techniques. This kata emphasises proper body
mechanics, the development of strong stances, and the effective use of blocks and strikes in
combination. It teaches the practitioner to transition smoothly between offensive and defensive
techniques while maintaining balance and focus. Pinan Nidan is a crucial stepping stone toward
mastering Wado-Ryu principles and is essential for advancing to higher-level katas.
Pinan Nidan is a 21-movement kata that combines the basic techniques of the Pinan series with the
more advanced methods of the Kushanku series. It is designed to instruct students on the fundamental
principles of Wado-Ryu and its evolution.
The Pinan series, which includes the Pinan Nidan, Pinan Shodan, Pinan Sandan, Pinan Yodan, and Pinan
Godan, is
the most basic form of Wado-Ryu kata. These movements are designed to teach students the basic
principles of Wado-Ryu and to help them develop their physical strength, agility, and endurance.
Introduction:
Pinan Nidan is a foundational kata in Wado-Ryu Karate that introduces students to essential stances,
blocks, strikes, and movements. This kata focuses on fluid transitions, proper technique, and
precise footwork.
Step 1: Yoi (Ready Stance)
Start in Masuba Dachi (attention stance).
Rei (bow), then open your stance into Hachiji Dachi (ready stance).
Step 2: First Move - Left Gedan Barai (Low Block)
Turn 90 degrees to your left into Mahamni Neko Ashi Dachi (side-facing cat stance).
Perform a full motion Agi Uke (rising block), dropping into a Tetsui Uke (hammer fist block) with
your left hand.
Step 3: Right Junzuki (Lunge Punch)
Step forward into Right Junzuki Dachi (right front stance).
Execute a Right Junzuki (lunge punch).
Step 4: Pull Back and Turn 180 Degrees
Pull your front hand across your chest and your front foot back into a natural stance.
Turn 180 degrees, into Right Junzuki Dachi (right front stance).
Perform a Right Gedan Uke (low block).
Step 5: Right Agi Uke, Tetsui Uke, and Left Junzuki
Pull your right foot back into a Shazentai Dachi (natural stance).
Perform a Right Agi Uke followed by a Tetsui Uke.
Step forward into Left Junzuki Dachi and execute a Left Junzuki.
Step 6: Turn Left - Left Gedan Uke
Turn 90 degrees to your left into Left Junzuki Dachi.
Perform a Left Gedan Uke.
Step 7: Three-Step High Block Sequence
Step forward into Right Junzuki Dachi and perform a Right Jodan Uke (high block).
Step forward with a Left Jodan Uke, then step forward again with a Right Jodan Uke.
On the final step, shout "Kiai!"
Step 8: Turn 225 Degrees - Left Gedan Uke
Turn 225 degrees into Left Junzuki Dachi.
Perform a Left Gedan Uke.
Step 9: Right Junzuki Sequence
Step forward into Right Junzuki Dachi, perform a Right Junzuki.
Turn 90 degrees to the right, into Right Junzuki Dachi and perform a Right Gedan Uke.
Step forward into Left Junzuki Dachi, perform a Left Junzuki.
Step 10: Final Junzuki Sequence
Turn 45 degrees left, into Left Junzuki Dachi and perform a Left Gedan Uke.
Step forward into Right Junzuki Dachi, perform a Right Junzuki.
Continue stepping forward into Left Junzuki Dachi and Right Junzuki Dachi, executing Junzuki punches
with each step.
Step 11: Final Spear Hand Sequence
Pivot 225 degrees left, pulling your left foot back into Left Shomen Neko Ashi Dachi (front-facing
cat stance).
Perform a left Yohon Nukite (spear hand) and prepare your right hand defensively.
Step forward with your left foot into Left Shiko Dachi (four-point stance), extending your left
Nukite (spear hand) to the side.
Step 12: Finish with Nukite
Step forward into Right Shiko Dachi, extending a Right Yohon Nukite.
Pivot to the right 90 degrees, pulling into Right Shomen Neko Ashi Dachi.
Execute a final Right Yohon Nukite and then step into Left Shiko Dachi with a Left Yohon
Nukite.
Final Step: Return to Ready Stance and Bow
Pull the right foot back into Hachiji Dachi (ready stance).
Rei (bow) to conclude the kata.