Shi Titles in Karate – The Jissenkō Ryū & Voracious Karate Structure

In karate, Dan grades (black belt levels) indicate technical rank, while traditional Japanese shi titles—such as Renshi, Kyoshi, and Hanshi—are used to denote master-level instructor titles. These titles are often referred to as Shōgō titles.

There is no single universal standard governing how shi titles are applied across karate. Their use can vary depending on the style, organisation, governing body, and country. Some systems overlap titles across multiple Dan grades, while others apply them differently or choose not to use shi titles at all.

Jissenkō Ryū Karate is our style, and Voracious Karate is our dojo. Within this system, we follow a clear, fixed structure with no overlap, ensuring consistency and clarity.

Our official structure is as follows:

• 5th Dan and 6th Dan — Renshi

• 7th Dan and 8th Dan — Kyoshi

• 9th Dan and 10th Dan — Hanshi

Dan grades below 5th Dan do not carry shi titles within our system.

Master-level titles in karate

Within traditional karate, shi titles are recognised as formal master-level instructor titles.

• Renshi is recognised as a master-level instructor title.

• Kyoshi is recognised as a higher master-level instructor title.

• Hanshi is recognised as the highest master-level instructor title.

While these titles are discussed broadly across the karate world, the Dan grades attached to them can differ between organisations.

Awarding of Shi Titles

Within Jissenkō Ryū Karate, shi titles are not automatic and do not come as an entitlement with Dan rank alone. While Dan grade determines eligibility, the awarding of any shi title requires formal agreement and approval by the founding board of Jissenkō Ryū Karate.

Only when the founding board agrees that an individual meets the standards of the system will a shi title be formally granted. This ensures that these titles remain consistent, controlled, and meaningful within the style.

Organisational clarity

The structure outlined above applies specifically to Jissenkō Ryū Karate as a style and Voracious Karate as a dojo. Other clubs, styles, and organisations may legitimately use different structures, timelines, or criteria when awarding shi titles.

Our approach defines how these titles are applied within our own system, providing clarity and consistency for instructors and students.