Dojo Kun – The rules of etiquette in a Dojo

The martial art of Karate is about more than physical development. Karate builds character and strengthens the resolve to work towards personal goals.

This article looks at the five rules that govern the Karate Dojo. We are not concerned with the rules of the Dojo itself, which talk about health and safety, but rather the etiquette of a Dojo that can be carried through into our everyday lives.

Much like the 20 Guiding Principles of Karate, concerning the ‘rules of practice’, the Dojo Kun are rooted in respect.

1. Each person must strive for the completion and perfection of one’s character

The first rule of the Karate Dojo is to ‘perfect one’s character’, meaning to always seek self-improvement and personal growth. This rule means something different to every member of the Dojo and can be applied to all.

2. Each person must be faithful and protect the way of truth

Rule two asks us to be faithful to our Sensei and our Dojo. The traditional meaning of this Dojo Kun is to be faithful to your leader and follow them to battle. However, these days we simply ask you to follow our instruction and commit to your training!

3. Each person must endeavour

To show endeavour means to make an effort with a level of commitment. You must be dedicated to your art in order to succeed. Mastery is not possible without endeavour.

4. Each person must respect others and the rules of etiquette

Gichin Funakoshi, author of The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate in 1938 stressed that Karate begins and ends with respect. Karate is a traditional art and therefore you see bowing as seen in the nature of the Japanese culture. In the Dojo you bow correctly and are courteous at all times and every person is shown respect, inside and outside of the Dojo.

5. Each person must refrain from hot blooded behaviour, and guard against impetuous courage

Karate training teaches us to control our tempers and strike only in defence. A martial artist who has been training for any amount of time learns competitive spirit and great strength, and it can therefore be unfair to use that against someone who is not trained in the way of Karate. The strength of character it takes to refrain from violence can sometimes be greater than any physical strength.

Some Dojos recite or sing these five Dojo Kun to close the training session, but all Dojos display them for all to see. Students may be asked to study the Dojo Kun and may be questioned on them as part of their grading preparation.

If these rules of etiquette have meaning to you, and you have yet to try Karate, please ask us any questions you have or enquire after a free trial class.