Known as “Budo” (武道), which can be translated as “martial way” in English, there are many types of Japanese martial arts that have been developed and practiced for centuries here in the Land of the Rising Sun. Although each Japanese martial art has different core philosophical values, self-development and self-discipline are a common theme in all forms of Budo.
Learning Budo teaches us to go through life’s struggles and difficult times with a strong mind and a strong body. But what sets each of these Japanese martial arts apart and what makes them special? Here we introduce you to some of the most important Japanese martial arts to give you a better idea!
1. Judo
Judo is probably one of the most famous Japanese martial arts in the world and has been hugely successful in expanding overseas. It was officially chosen as an Olympic sport along with karate and sees athletes ranging from children to the elderly.
While Japan is the country with the most judo athletes with an impressive number of 175,000 “Judo-ka”, France has more than 560,000 players and Brazil has by far eclipsed Japan with the largest number of judo-ka with more than 2 million.
Judo’s history dates back to 1882 when the founder, Kano Jigoro, established a new form of physical practice and self-defense techniques based on using the opponent’s momentum against himself. Modern judo techniques also combine traditional Japanese jiujutsu (柔術), which was originally used as an effective form of unarmed combat by samurai.
2. Karaté (Karate)
Although karate is considered a traditional Japanese martial art, it actually originated in Okinawa in the 14th century when Okinawa was still an independent kingdom. The translation of karate in English is “empty hand” which refers to the unique combat and defense techniques that allow you to protect yourself without using weapons.
Although it is now widely recognized as a competitive sport, a range of participants practice it for a number of purposes such as developing self-discipline, self-confidence, physical and mental strength, and much more. It has also been officially added as a new Olympic sport for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
3. Aïkido
Aikido is another form of Japanese martial art and was founded by Morihei Ueshiba in the early 20th century. Aikido training places particular emphasis on self-defense techniques and mental development rather than offensive physical attacks.
Traditional aikido techniques are based on distinct circular movements that redirect the attacker’s force towards him without using your own strength. Therefore, it does not require any strong physical ability and can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of age or gender. Learning aikido not only helps people learn defensive techniques, but also builds self-confidence.
4. Kendo
Kendo is a modern Japanese martial art that uses bamboo swords and protective armor. It is widely taught in schools in Japan as part of the physical education curriculum or as part of club activities.
Kendo techniques are based on the traditional sword art called “Kenjutsu” (剣術), which was used by samurai warriors in the 13th and 14th centuries. In Kendo matches, competitors must precisely hit the specific body parts of their opponents and get the points needed to win. Learning Kendo not only teaches you how to defeat the opponent, but also how to build a strong body and mind by practicing the traditional way of swordsmanship.
5. Kyudo (Kyudo)
Kyudo is a traditional form of Japanese archery which literally means “the way of the bow”. The history of Kyudo dates back to ancient times when people used bows and arrows to hunt animals.
In the 12th century a turning point occurred and more sophisticated and elaborate shooting skills and techniques were developed by samurai warriors as a means of training and self-discipline. These techniques were also often employed in battles. Today Kyudo is taught in some schools as a club activity in Japan and is gaining popularity around the world as a competitive sport.
6. Iaïdo
Iaido is a Japanese martial art that focuses on the carefully controlled movements of drawing one’s blade. The origin of Iaido dates back to the mid-16th century, when traditional sword techniques were developed by samurai warriors in Yamagata Prefecture.
Iaido training usually begins with learning forms called “Kata” (形), which help you react smoothly to sudden attacks by quickly drawing a sword. Iaido techniques may not seem practical these days, but they also teach us how to train our body and mind by applying traditional sword techniques to our daily life that have been preserved for centuries.
7. Sumo
Sumo is a traditional Japanese form of wrestling that has been worshiped as Japan’s national sport for centuries. It is widely known as the oldest sport in Japan, practiced since ancient times, as it was originally practiced to entertain the harvest gods during Shinto ritual festivals around 1,500 years ago.
Since then sumo has transformed through the ages and it was during the Edo period (1603-1868) that sumo finally became a popular sport among the common people. The modern rules of sumo were also established at the time and have hardly changed even today.
Japanese martial arts are not only enjoyed in Japan, but are now very popular all over the world. Some of them, like judo and karate, are now widely practiced as modern competitive sports that help people stay healthy and build mental toughness.
There are also a number of martial arts clubs and schools around the world that aim to spread the influence and popularity of traditional Japanese martial arts and its philosophy. If they interest you, learning their history and traditional techniques will deepen your understanding of these intriguing cultures!
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Miho Shimizu is a Japanese freelance writer based in Shizuoka with her husband and two rabbits. Fascinated by travel at the age of 18, she spent most of her long vacations exploring incredible places in Japan. Also enjoys listening to music, drawing and reading novels over a cup of green tea.
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