Dojo Kun

What is Dojo Kun?

Dōjō Kun (道場訓) means “Training Hall Rules” or “Dojo Oath.”

It’s a short set of ethical guidelines recited at the end of Karate practice (especially in Shotokan and many other Karate styles).
The purpose is to remind students that Karate is about building character, not just fighting.

🔹 Typical Shotokan Dōjō Kun (5 rules)

There are slight variations by school, but the most common form is:

1. Hitotsu! Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomuru koto
   → Seek perfection of character.
2. Hitotsu! Makoto no michi o mamoru koto
   → Be faithful / Protect the path of truth.
3. Hitotsu! Doryoku no seishin o yashinau koto
   → Endeavor / Cultivate a spirit of effort.
4. Hitotsu! Reigi o omonzuru koto
   → Respect others.
5. Hitotsu! Kekki no yū o imashimuru koto
   → Refrain from violent behavior / Guard against hot-blooded courage.

(Hitotsu = “first,” meaning all five are equally important, not ranked.)

🔹 Purpose of the Dōjō Kun

• Moral Compass → reminds Karateka to train with humility and respect.
• Dojo Culture → builds unity and discipline in the group.
• Life Application → meant to guide behavior outside the dojo as well.

🔹 Difference from Nijū Kun

• Dōjō Kun = the 5 “dojo rules” (recited regularly, short and practical).
• Nijū Kun = Funakoshi’s 20 precepts (longer, philosophical, more like a manifesto).

Related Article:  Shotokan Karate: Complete Guide to the World's Most Popular Martial Art Style