The pattern appears to have come to Funakoshi via 'Bushi' Matsumura to Kokan Oyadomari and then to 'Anko' Itosu, one of Funakoshi's primary teachers. All of these instructors created their own versions and how much the form resembles its original form is impossible to say. Different 'streams' of the kata continue to exist and have always done so. One movement that has remained is the opening stance where the left hand is placed over the right closed fist - indicating its Chinese origin. The form may have originated from Leopard and / or Lion boxing or possible Five Element Fist. There is no conclusive evidence available.
The Matsumura version shows the Chinese influence while the Oyadomari version has been altered, and this variation was in turn changed by Itosu and Funakoshi. It was Itosu who is believed to have created the 'sho' variation and Funakoshi taught both the 'dai' and the 'sho' version on mainland Japan. There are differences in performance between the Shotokan, Wado ryu and Shito ryu versions found on mainland Japan but when comparing the newer Japanese versions to the older Okinawan kata there are numerous differences, though the basic pattern of movement can be discerned.
Master Kanazawa performing Bassai Dai
