Seek Perfection of Character
Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomuru kotoSeek perfection of character and continually improve yourself through training, learning and personal growth.
International Shotokan Karate Federation of India
Dojo Kun
ISKF INDIA · TRADITION
Dojo Kun
The principles and etiquette that guide every practitioner of traditional Shotokan Karate.
Dojo Kun — Principles for Karateka
Master Gichin Funakoshi (Father of Modern Karate Do)
Everyone who trains in karate must know the dojo kun. At the end of each training session—whether it be at the dojo, after class, or after a tournament, which I always call “special training”—the dojo kun is repeated all together by the students as a reminder of why we train.
The dojo kun states the basic philosophy of karate, according to its founder and my teacher, Master Gichin Funakoshi. Master Funakoshi believed that, for the true karate-ka, the dojo kun should not only be considered a set of rules of conduct in the dojo, but a guide to everyday life.
01
The Five Principles of Dojo Kun
The Dojo Kun provides a foundation for the behaviour, attitude and personal development of a karateka both inside and outside the dojo.
Be Faithful
Makoto no michi o mamoru kotoBe sincere in everything you do. Make a total effort and remain true to yourself and others.
Endeavor
Doryoku no seishin o yashinau kotoTry hard at everything you do and give your best effort in training, work and relationships.
Respect Others
Reigi o omonzuru kotoShow respect and humility toward others. Treat everyone with courtesy and consideration.
Refrain from Violent Behavior
Keki no yu o imashimuru koto
Control yourself at all times and avoid unnecessary
conflict. A martial artist should remain calm,
controlled and peaceful, using Karate techniques
only when truly necessary for self-defence.
道
Dojo Etiquette
Karate is dangerous, so proper observance of etiquette is as important to our training as learning the physical techniques of Karate.
Please follow the etiquette below at all dojos:
- Students must advise instructors of ailments, injuries or diseases prior to instruction.
- Remove your shoes before entering the dojo.
- Bow each time you enter or leave the dojo as a sign of humility and respect.
- Try not to be late for class. If you are late, enter the dojo quietly and wait at the back of the class until the instructor asks you to join.
- Remove your watch and all jewellery before practice to avoid injury to you and others.
- Keep your finger and toe nails cut short to avoid injury to others.
- Maintain personal cleanliness as an act of consideration, respect and safety.
- Hydration is important during practice. Keep liquids outside of the practice area.
- No food is permitted in the dojo during practice.
- No unnecessary talking during practice.
- Never leave the dojo without permission.
- Report all injuries to the instructor before leaving.
- Help clean the dojo before practice.
- Respect all dojo equipment such as kicking shields and focus mitts.
- Visitors should sit quietly at the back of the dojo.
- Evidence of alcohol or drug use is grounds for immediate dismissal from the practice and the club.
Karate Begins With Respect
The Dojo Kun is not merely a set of rules to be recited. It represents the principles that a karateka strives to carry from the dojo into everyday life.