Dojo

Rokkaku-dou Ikenobou doujou

Noma Dojo, 2006

Traditional Dojo - Karate Kaikan

Dojo is a term used in martial arts to refer to a formal training place for any of the Japanese martial arts such as judo, karate, kendo, and aikido. The word dojo originates from the Japanese term dōjō (道場), which literally means "place of the way". The concept of a dojo as a martial arts training space has been adopted by various martial arts around the world, not just those of Japanese origin.

History

The history of the dojo dates back to the temples of ancient Japan, where monks practiced and taught martial arts as part of their spiritual and physical discipline. Over time, the use of the dojo expanded beyond the temples, becoming a dedicated space for martial arts training. The traditional dojo was often a part of the teacher's house, with the dojo on the ground floor and the living quarters above it.

Structure and Etiquette

A traditional Japanese dojo is designed with certain elements that reflect Japanese culture and the philosophies underlying martial arts. The entrance to the dojo is usually at the lower end of the hall, with the kamiza or shomen (a place of honor) at the upper end. The kamiza often features a Shinto shrine or calligraphy, symbolizing respect for the ancestors and the martial arts tradition.

Etiquette in the dojo is of utmost importance. Practitioners, known as deshi, are expected to bow upon entering and leaving the dojo, showing respect to the dojo itself and to the sensei (teacher). The hierarchical structure within the dojo is also significant, with senior students (senpai) providing guidance to junior students (kohai).

Training

Training in a dojo focuses on the physical, mental, and sometimes spiritual development of the student. The specific activities and teaching methods vary widely among different martial arts and different schools within those arts. Training typically includes the practice of kata (forms), kumite (sparring), and kobudo (weapons training), among other techniques.

Modern Dojos

Today, the concept of a dojo has been embraced by many martial arts from different cultures, and the term is sometimes used to describe training halls for non-Japanese martial arts. Modern dojos may vary significantly in their design and operation compared to traditional Japanese dojos. However, the core principles of respect, discipline, and the pursuit of mastery remain central to the concept of the dojo.

See Also

• Martial Arts
• Sensei
• Kata
• Kumite
• Kobudo