Bassai Kata

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BASSAI

Previous names :

Passai

Meaning of kata :

To storm a fortress, to storm a castle, to penetrate a fortress.

Origins of kata :

The kata now comes in two forms, Bassai Dai and Bassai Sho. Dai being the major version and Sho the lesser or minor version. There are however many variations.

The original was Bassai Dai. Bassai Sho was created in more recent times by Master Itotsu. The exact origins of Bassai Dai are unknown. It has however been established that it did not originate from Naha-te. The kata was practised by Shuri-te and there is some evidence to suggest it was practised by Tomari-te.

Practised by :

Shotokan and Wado Ryu.