Kanshiwa, according to Allen Dollar's book is named from a combination of Kanbun Uechi sensei and Shushiwa. It was created by Kanei Uechi sensei in approximately 1956 as a means of helping students (especially foreign students) keep interested in the art and be willing to teach it around the world. Furthermore, it helps the student bridge the gap from Sanchin and Seisan more easier. It is the first fighting kata of Uechi-ryu, and thus the first kata after Sanchin that new students learn. It is a basic kata which shows the linear aspect of the art. It encompasses basic blocking and striking as found in the style's hojo undo. Because the movements are simplified and the sequence is elementary, it helps the students see several things (1) how the techniques learned in Sanchin can be used outside of Sanchin and (2) how to flow from one series of movements to the next. Of course all the other concepts of Sanchin are exercised and trained as well. It is an excellent kata for students to begin with and should be perfected as much as possible by those of higher rank and experience.

KANSHIWA

1. Bow and come up to neutral stance with hands in post position.
2. Turn 90 degrees to the left in a left stance. Block with left hand and throw a right middle punch.
3. Turn 180 degrees into a right stance. Block with the right hand and throw a left middle punch.
4. Turn 90 degrees to the left in a left stance. Block with the left hand and throw a right middle punch.
5. Step through into a right stance and throw a right block and right side kick.
6. Step through into a left stance and throw a left block and left side kick.
7. Step into a right fighting stance. Block with the left hand and throw a right middle forearm strike.
8. Turn 180 degrees into a left stance with the arms in Sanchin position.
9. Slide forward in a left stance and perform a left wa-uke block and strike.
10. Step forward in a right stance and perform a right wa-uke block and strike.
11. Step forward in a left stance and perform a left wa-uke block and strike.
12. Step forward in a right stance and perform a left middle block and a right shuto and a right back fist.
13. Turn 180 degrees into a left stance. Throw a left middle block and a left front kick.
14. Slide forward in a left stance. Throw a left middle block and a right one- knuckle punch.
15. Slide back in a left stance. Put both hands in shoken fists and place the right hand over the left.
16. Slide the left foot back to a neutral stance.
17. Place both hands by your side and bow.