The hierarchy in Kyokushin is rooted in Japanese traditions of respect and discipline. It helps maintain order in the dojo and facilitates the transmission of knowledge from senior students to junior ones.

Main titles in Kyokushin:
— kohai — junior student;
— sempai — senior student;
— sensei — instructor;
— shihan-dai — assistant shihan;
— shihan — senior master;
— hanshi — supreme mentor;
— kancho — head of the organization;
— sosai — founder of the school.

Kyokushin also has a belt system:
— kyu — student grades;
— dan — master grades.

The hierarchy helps maintain discipline, respect, and the traditions of Japanese karate.