Pinan 平安

The Pinan (平安) kata are the second series of kata that we teach here at Club Naha after the Yoso no Kata series. During the study of these kata, students are introduced to new techniques, and should focus on differentiating between stances and learning to generate power in techniques by applying their hips.

The Pinan kata originated in Okinawa and were formed by Anko Itosu from older kata such as Kusanku (Kanku Dai), Passai (Bassai Dai), and Gojushiho. Anko Itosu formed these kata to make Kusanku (Kanku Dai), Passai (Bassai Dai), and Gojushiho easier to learn.

The first character, 'pin', means flat and easy, while the second kanji, 'an', means easy or comfortable. Also called "peaceful mind" kata, the Pinan series are easy and comfortable fundamental kata.

The Pinan kata are practiced, with various modifications, in many styles of Japanese and Okinawan martial arts. When Gichin Funakoshi brought karate to Japan, he renamed the Pinan kata to Heian.

Pinan Shodan(The Beginning of this kata is performed a little different then our version)


Here is a similar version of our Pinan Sandan


Pinan Yondan and Pinan Godan: (slightly different then our versions)

Pinan Yondan


Pinan Godan