Foundational 15 Aiki Toho Iai Katas (2001 -)
The 15 forms as taught by Nishio sensei at the April 2001 seminar in Aarhus, Denmark are considered the foundational forms in ENATO. Although smaller variations did occur in the forms post 2001 then major revision of the 15 forms took place.
Examinations in Toho
Examinations in TOHO by ENATO consist of three parts:
A: Toho Iai katas of own choice selected among the final 15 Aikido Toho Iai kata forms (Nishio Sensei 2001~).
B: Ken Tai Ken and Ken Tai Jo representation(s) of one or more of the katas shown in A)
C: Toho Iai kata(s) appointed by the grading jury at the examination
The number of applications to be shown in A, B, and C parts for each grade is shown in the below table:
Example: A 2nd dan applicant must show 3 Toho Iai katas of own choise selected among the 15 base katas. 2 of these katas must furthermore be shown as Ken Tai Ken and Ken Tai Jo representations.
Finally the jury will ask the applicant to show two designated Toho Iai katas from among the 15 base katas.
Furthermore the 2nd. dan applicant can earliest take examination 1 year after 1st dan examination.
The 2001 Toho Iai Forms by Nishio sensei
Shoji Nishio sensei performing the 15 katas and the corresponding ken tai ken, and ken tai jo exercises at the 2001 seminar in Århus, Denmark. It was Nishio sensei's last seminar abroad
