Understanding the Dojo Kun: Karate’s Guiding Principles

At Rei Karate Do, we believe karate is more than just kicks, punches, and blocks—it’s about becoming the best version of yourself. That’s where the Dojo Kun comes in.

What is the Dojo Kun?
The Dojo Kun is a set of rules or principles that guide how we behave both inside and outside the dojo. It’s like a promise we make to ourselves to follow the values of karate in everything we do. At the end of each class, we recite the Dojo Kun together to remind ourselves of these important lessons.

Why Do We Have a Dojo Kun?

Karate isn’t just about physical strength—it’s also about building character. The Dojo Kun helps us stay focused on values like respect, hard work, and self-control. These lessons don’t just help us in karate—they also help us at school, at home, and with our friends.

Let’s go through each part of the Dojo Kun. First, we’ll share the Japanese phrase, then the English translation, and finally, what it teaches us.

1. 人格完成に努むること (Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomeru koto)

Translation: Seek perfection of character.

This means we should always try to be the best person we can be. It’s not about being perfect, but about working hard to improve ourselves every day. In karate, this could mean learning a new move or practising with focus. Outside the dojo, it means being kind, honest, and helpful to others.

2. 誠の道を守ること (Makoto no michi o mamoru koto)

Translation: Be sincere.

Being sincere means staying true to your promises and doing what you say you’ll do. In karate, this means showing up for class and giving your best effort. At home or school, it means being trustworthy and dependable, so others know they can count on you.

3. 努力の精神を養うこと (Doryoku no seishin o yashinau koto)

Translation: Put maximum effort into everything you do.

This reminds us to give our full effort, no matter the challenge. Whether it’s learning a difficult kata or finishing homework, we aim to do our very best. Even if we don’t succeed at first, trying hard helps us grow stronger and more confident.

4. 礼儀を重んずること (Reigi o omonzuru koto)

Translation: Respect others.

Respect is one of the most important lessons in karate. It means listening to our Shihan, Sensei, and Senpai, bowing to our training partners, and treating everyone with kindness. Outside the dojo, it means being polite to teachers, friends, and family. Respect builds strong relationships and makes our community better.

5. 血気の勇を戒むること (Kekki no yū o imashimuru koto)

Translation: Develop self-control.

Karate teaches us how to defend ourselves, but it also teaches us self-control. We use our skills responsibly and never to harm others out of anger. This point reminds us to stay calm and solve problems peacefully, both in karate and in daily life.

Living the Dojo Kun Every Day

The Dojo Kun is more than just words we say at the end of class—it’s a guide to becoming a better person. By following these principles, we grow stronger not just as martial artists but as members of our community.

When we seek to improve ourselves, stay faithful, always do our best, respect others, and practice self-control, we make a positive difference in our dojo and beyond.

At Rei Karate Do, we are proud to live by the Dojo Kun every day, learning and growing together.

Let’s continue striving to follow these values in everything we do!