About This Kata
| Name | Seipai [十八手] |
| Translation | Eighteen Hands / Eighteen Techniques |
| Style | Gōjū-ryū |
| Level | Advanced |
| History | Seipai is one of the classical Gōjū-ryū kata transmitted through Higaonna Kanryō from Chinese martial arts in Fujian Province. The number 18 refers to 18 fundamental fighting methods contained within the kata, and also holds Buddhist numerological significance, representing the 18 disciples of Buddha or various aspects of enlightenment. The kata is characterised by dynamic shifts between long-range and close-range techniques, emphasising powerful strikes, quick changes in direction, and effective use of angles. Also romanised as Sepai. |
| Lineage | Chinese martial arts → Higaonna Kanryō (Naha-te) → Chōjun Miyagi, Kyoda Juhatsu; Chōjun Miyagi → Masutatsu (via Goen Yamaguchi) |
Kata steps and diagrams to come. If you would like to help completing this page, please contact me (mark.loftusuk@gmail.com).