About
KarateDecoded is a free, carefully-built reference for the 26 kata of Shotokan karate, plus the belt system and core techniques. Every kata page gives a verified move-by-move walkthrough with an interactive step player, the history and meaning of the form, sample bunkai (applications), common mistakes, grading notes, and a frequently-asked-questions section.
Each kata sequence is cross-checked against multiple reputable Shotokan sources — including JKA-lineage references such as André Bertel’s technical writings, shotokankaratecsl.com, themartialway.com.au and Nakayama’s Best Karate counts — before it is published. Where sources genuinely disagree (move counts, kiai placement, the Gojūshiho Dai/Shō name-swap, kata the JKA has dropped), we say so on the page rather than presenting one version as the only truth.
The figures are hand-built schematics: they show the shape of each stance and technique so you can follow the sequence, but they are diagrams, not photographs of a real karateka. Every kata page links to full-speed reference performances on video, and a photographed/filmed layer is planned. Treat this site as a study aid, never a replacement for a qualified instructor.
Kata is a living tradition and details vary between associations and dōjō. If you spot an error, we want to fix it.