Shotokan Karate

Shotokan Karate is the school that represents the teachings of Gichin Funakoshi (1870-1957), who stressed the development of character through training.  The principle aim is a positive approach to other people and society through courtesy, courage, integrity, humility, and self-control. 

Funakoshi  expressed this aim in the words  "The ultimate aim of Karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants." 

Gichin Funakoshi

Founder of Shotokan Karate

The Dojo Kun is recited at the conclusion of karate training.   These are the guiding principles of karate-do. 

Dojo Kun

SEEK PERFECTION OF CHARACTER.
BE FAITHFUL.
ENDEAVOR.
RESPECT OTHERS.
REFRAIN FROM VIOLENT BEHAVIOR.

Calligraphy by Master Teruyuki Okazaki
Chief Instructor of the ISKF

Mr. Funakoshi modified the way karate was written by introducing the character for "kara" to convey the deeper meaning of "emptiness"-the mental, physical, as well as development of the spirit. 

The "empty hand" concept not only reflected the fact that its practitioners used no weapons, but also the process of perfecting one's self and one's art - by emptying the heart and mind of earthly desire and vanity.

Master Funskoshi's 20 Principles of Karate-Do

Niju Kun:

1. Karate is not only dojo training.
2. Don't forget that Karate begins with a bow and ends with a bow.
3. In Karate, never attack first.
4. One who practices Karate must follow the way of justice.
5. First you must know yourself. Then you can know others.
6. Spiritual development is paramount; technical skills are merely means to the end.
7. You must release your mind.
8. Misfortune comes out of laziness.
9. Karate is a lifelong training.
10. Put karate into everything you do.
11. Karate is like hot water. If you do not give heat constantly it will again become cold.
12. Do not think you have to win. Think that you do not have to lose.
13. Victory depends on your ability to tell vulnerable points from invulnerable ones.
14. Move according to your opponent.
15. Consider your opponent's hands and legs as you would sharp swords.
16. When you leave home, think that millions of opponents are waiting for you.
17. Ready position for beginners and natural position for advanced students.
18. Kata is one thing. Engaging in a real fight is another.
19. Do not forget (1)strength and weakness of power, (2)expansion and contraction of the body, (3)slowness and speed of techniques.
20. Devise at all times.