The Kihon (basic) Happo (eight ways) must be studied well in order to gain a firm grasp of the basic body movements.  These eight methods of dealing with striking attacks and grabbing attacks form the core of Budo Taijutsu.  The Kihon Happo introduces the student to methods that will involve counterstriking and joint manipulation.  Proper body mechanics as well as correct distance and angling will help utilize your body to the maximum effect against your opponent.

Koshi Sanpo Waza (Three Fundamental Methods of Koshijutsu). 
Ichimonji no kata.  Hicho no kata.  Jumonji no kata.

Torite Kihon Gata Goho (Five Fundamental Hand Capture Forms).
Omote gyaku.  Ura to Hon gyaku.  Musha dori.  Ganseki Nage.  Musso dori.

“When I was taught the Gyokko Ryu Koshijutsu Kihon Gata, there were in this engendering of fundamental form the eight methods. I was told that this kihon happo is the origin of all budo. So I say to you earnestly, you make this the basis and teach it to your students.”
–Toshitsugu Takamatsu as told to Masaaki Hatsumi.

Hatsumi Sensei always reminds his students to constantly train in the Kihon Happo.  If you are having trouble in your techniques, go back and study the Kihon gata.  This cannot be overstated enough; most errors in technique are because the fundamentals of the Kihon Happo were not studied properly.

These kata are basically made up of defensive movements in response to an opponent’s attack and then an offensive finger-striking counter.

Movements which usually attack an opponent’s arms and involve taking the attacker to the ground in ways that do not allow him to land safely.