Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Dojo

The Dojo (道場) is a sacred space used in the practice of karate. Dojo is composed of two characters and means literally, place of the way. A proper Japanese-style martial arts dojo is considered special and is well cared for by its users. In many styles it is traditional to conduct a ritual cleaning of the dojo at the end of each training session (called sojii). Many traditional dojo follow a prescribed pattern with shomen and various entrances that are used based on student and instructor rank laid out precisely. It is not uncommon to find the name of the dojo and the dojo kun (dojo rules) displayed prominently at shomen as well.
The dojo kun used by the International Shotokan Karate Federation, Japan Shotokan Karate Association and the JKA is as follows[7]:
Exert oneself in the perfection of character
Be faithful and sincere
Cultivate the spirit of perseverance
Respect propriety
Refrain from impetuous and violent behaviour
At the end of a training session, mokuso (meditation) may occur. It is a short, tranquil period where the karateka can reflect on the session just finished.

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