Dojo

道場

Traditional training hall for Japanese martial arts and meditation.

Quick Facts

CategoryPlace

Pronunciation/[doh-joh]/

Alternative NamesDojo hall, Dōjō

Definition

A dojo represents a sacred space dedicated to personal and physical growth. Upon entering and leaving this area, practitioners express respect with a bow. Traditional layouts follow a strict hierarchy of sides, with the front wall (Kamiza) displaying the founder's portrait or school symbols. Strict etiquette governs the dojo, emphasizing respect, discipline, and absolute focus.

Related Terms

Tatami畳

Traditional and modern impact-absorbing mat forming the floor of a dojo.

Rei礼

Traditional bow expressing respect, humility, and proper etiquette.

Sensei先生

Honorific title for a teacher or instructor in Japanese culture.

Associated Martial Arts

Takamura Shindo Yoshin-ryu Tenjin Shin-ryu Jujutsu Jikishin-ryu Jujutsu Kosen Judo Yoshinkan Aikido Byakuren Kaikan Asayama Ichiden-ryu Tenjin Shin'yo-ryu Jujutsu Shotokan Kyushin-ryu Jujutsu Takagi-ryu Jujutsu Chokushin-ryu Jujutsu Shindo Yoshin-ryu Jujutsu Unkei-ryu Jujutsu Seidokaikan Karate Sekiguchi-ryu Jujutsu Hontai Yoshin-ryu Jujutsu Jundokan Goju-ryu Shinno Shinto-ryu Jujutsu Kyokushin Budokai Shibukawa-ryu Jujutsu