Traditional Karate > Kata > Suansu

This Kata was developed ("originated" would be a better word) by Master Tatsuo Shimabuku. The name Suansu means "Dragon Boy". The dragon was chosen by Master Tatsuo Shimabuku because the dragon is the most powerful thing in Oriental Mythology.

The techniques in Suansu Kata are the Master's favorite techniques from the other Katas and the basic techniques charts. Suansu is considered by most experts as the hardest of all the Isshinryu Katas to perform with the correct balance, speed, and coordination. The fact it has techniques from the other Katas makes it imperative that you concentrate or you may wind up leading yourself into one of the other Katas. The mind is much like the muscles of our bodies. The more we use them the stronger they become. It is my belief that the Master made Suansu this way to make us work harder in all areas to make us better Karatekas.

Since the Master created Suansu, and did not demonstrate Isshinryu until January 16, 1954, I would say that it is the youngest of all the Isshinryu Katas. Suansu is unique to Isshinryu: No other style or system has Suansu Kata.