Koryu Uchinadi ‘KU’ White Crane Kata

Practical fighting, not sport or performance karate

White Crane kata preserve the internal, anatomical, and neurological layer of Okinawan self-defence. They refine how structure (Naihanchi) is used, ensuring karate remains jutsu—a practical method for surviving real violence—not a sport or spectacle.

• Principle-based, not choreography-based

  • Breath-timed issuing of force

  • Tactile sensitivity and redirection

  • Structural disruption rather than force-on-force

• Used to teach internal mechanics, breath, and nervous system control

• Always paired with two-person drills and resistance

• Studied only after foundational structure is established (e.g. Naihanchi)

Happōren (Eight-Step Linking)

• Multi-directional close-range engagement

• Continuous limb control while striking

• Recovery of balance under pressure

Hakutsuru (White Crane form – variant transmissions)

• Whipping, spine-driven power

• Vulnerability targeting (neck, throat, clavicle)

• Soft–hard transitions under contact

Practical Fighting Emphasis - KU White Crane kata address Habitual Acts of Physical Violence (HAPV):

• Grabs, clinches, head control

• Swinging punches and shoves

• Sudden ambush at conversational distance

Not Sport. Not Public Kata

Hakutsuru -

KU White Crane kata are advanced reference models, preserved to transmit the internal, neurological, and anatomical dimension of Okinawan self-defence. They are not taught for rank, competition, or aesthetics—but to ensure karate remains a functional method for surviving close-range violence.

Happoren

A bridge between structure (Naihanchi) and adaptability (Hakutsuru)

Nepai

Interruption and control— principles survive pressure, resistance, and unpredictability.

Ryushan

Tomari-te lineages and was never intended for sportive exchange; its structure reflects civilian self-defence at close rang