Kwanku
( To Look at the Sky
)
The correct Japanese name for this kata is Kanku, but the Okinawan name has been used here as it is referred to by this in Gichin Funakoshi's book "Karate-Do Kyohan" where the most of the kata description were obtained.
| Kwanku Dai | This kata is an advanced kata of sixty five movements and is performed in the plus-minus pattern. The name comes from the opening movements where the hands are held open, palms inward in front of the body. They are then raised slowly to point upwards above the head. During this movement the eyes view through the hands and eventually seem to be looking upwards through the hands. | |
| Kwanku Sho | Is a shorter version and consists of forty seven movements performed in the plus-minus pattern the same as Kwanku Dai. Another advanced kata with a variety of new techniques included during execution such as overhand strikes, a jumping turn and a jumping spinning kick to the head. |