Katas in Okinawan Goju Ryu play a very important role in the essence of the ryuha (system). In times of the Goju Ryu founder, Chojun Miyagi Sensei katas were not taught in a specific order as is done in modern days. Katas were taught primarily considering the personal physical conditions and natural abilities of the students. The majority of the Okinawan Goju Ryu katas practiced nowadays originated in China. Unfortunately, the name of the persons responsible to formulate the katas, and the exact date of their creation are untraceable. All those katas were brought from China to Okinawa by Kanryo Higaonna Sensei who learned them from Ryu Ryu Ko Sensei in Fuchow. Miyagi Sensei's contribution to the Goju Ryu kata set includes the creation of Gekisai Dai Ichi, Gekisai Dai Ni, Tensho and Sanchin (straight version).

Goju Ryu katas are divided in two main groups: Heishugata and Kaishugata. Heishugata translates literally into 'close-hand kata', but what it really intends to say is the continued state of tension maintained throughout the execution or performance of the kata by contracting the muscles. Sanchin and Tensho katas are the typical explanation of Heishugata.

Kaishugata in contrast with Heishugata translates literally into 'open-hand kata'. This type of kata refers to the concept where the practitioner's body remains 'open' or relaxed during most of the kata, and powerful or tensed at the moment of the execution of the respective techniques.

The Okinawan Goju Ryu katas practiced at the Bushikan Budo Kyokai are listed down below in the order as they are taught at the Dojo.