About This Kata
| Name | Meikyo [明鏡] |
| Translation | Bright Mirror |
| Style | Shotokan |
| History | The name Meikyo (Bright Mirror) was selected by Gichin Funakoshi when adapting the older Okinawan kata known as Rōhai (浪泊 or 老範), which existed in multiple versions across various Okinawan lineages. Rōhai translates as ‘Vision of the Crane’ or ‘Peaceful Wave’ depending on the kanji used. The core material derives from three versions of Rōhai taught by Itosu Ankō. Some Tomari-te masters such as Kokan Oyadomari are also associated with Rōhai. Meikyo retains little of the distinctive one-legged stances (tsuri-ashi dachi) found in the original Rōhai versions. The name change aligns with Funakoshi’s philosophy of karate as a path to self-purification and mental refinement. It is sometimes referred to as Matsumura no Rōhai in reference to its lineage. |
| Lineage | Sōkon Matsumura (Shuri-te, possibly) / Itosu Ankō (Shuri-te, likely) → Gichin Funakoshi (Shōtōkan) |
Polished Mirror / Vision Of A White Crane (Shotokan Kata)
