Practice Judo in Japan: Immersion in Jigoro Kano's Martial Art

Born in Japan at the end of the 19th century, judo is now one of the most popular martial arts in the world. Beyond its techniques of projection and immobilization, judo embodies a true philosophy of life based on respect, discipline and self-control. For lovers of martial arts, a trip to Japan offers a unique opportunity to discover judo in its original cultural context, visit the emblematic places of its history, and even learn about its practice in a Japanese dojo.

The origin of judo: a modern response to the old Jiu-jitsu

Judo was founded in 1882 by Jigoro Kano, a Japanese intellectual passionate about traditional martial arts. Unsatisfied with the methods of the Jiu-jitsu, often considered too brutal, he developed a more educational discipline, emphasizing technique, body control and movement efficiency. He opened the first judo dojo, the Kōdōkan, in Tokyo, which today remains a high educational place.

Kano also introduced educational principles: judo is not limited to a combat sport, it is also a method of personal and collective development. Two central concepts guide this discipline:seiryoku zen(optimal use of energy) andjita kyōei(self-help and mutual benefit).

Judo practice in a Japanese dojo

Dojos in Japan are places of rigour and respect. The atmosphere is often silent, concentrated, with precise gestures that translate years of practice. Respect for the teacher (sensei), the training partners and the place itself is omnipresent. Before each session, a ceremonial greeting marks the entrance into the training space, symbol of humility and recognition.

Judo courses follow a precise course: warm-up, revision of techniques (nage-waza for projections, katame-waza for capital assets, etc.), randori (free fights) and return to calm. For foreign visitors, some dojos offer initiation courses or sessions open to visiting practitioners. It is recommended to have at least one base in martial art and to scrupulously follow the instructions of the teacher.

Basic Judo Techniques

Judo is based on the idea of turning the opponent’s strength against himself. The techniques are varied and fall into broad categories:

Swimming-waza(projection techniques): they aim to unbalance and then project the adversary to the ground. Among the most famous are:ippon sei nage(projection over shoulder),uchi mata(inside the thigh), orosoto gari(large outside mowing).
Katame-waza(control techniques): These include ground fixed assets (osae-komi-waza), bottlenecks (shime-waza) and joint keys (kansetsu-waza).
Atemi-waza(flashes): Although present in traditional education, these techniques are absent from sport practice.

Fighting is governed by a rating system that reflects technical success:ippon(direct victory),waza-ari(partial benefit),shido(warning). Certain techniques are prohibited for safety reasons, including direct head projections or leg seizures.

Belts: progression and engagement symbols

As in many martial arts, judo belts mark the level of technical mastery and student engagement. Colour belts range from white (beginner) to brown (advanced level), handed over by the professor within the dojo. Obtaining the black belt, synonymous with mastery, requires the success of a formal examination before a jury composed of senior officials.

The black belts are then classified by dan (grades), from first to tenth. These levels, rarely achieved, reward a lifetime involvement. The belt system is not only used to assess technical skills, but also the attitude, regularity, respect and contribution to the judo community.

Where to practice judo while in Japan

For travellers interested in judo, there are several places to immerse themselves in the culture of this martial art.

Kōdōkan, Tokyo

The historic cradle of judo, founded by Jigoro Kano. Located near Suidōbashi Station, this dojo is both a training centre, an educational institution and a museum. It hosts international courses and sessions open to confirmed judokas.

University dojos

Many Japanese universities have renowned judo clubs. Some organize meetings or demonstrations open to the public. Among the best known are the clubs of Tenri University, Tokai University or Tsukuba University.

Municipal dojos and sports centres

In major cities such as Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima or Fukuoka, sports centres offer judo training at all levels. It is advisable to contact establishments in advance, some requesting a medical certificate or insurance.

Festivals and competitions

Attending a judo competition in Japan is a full experience. Major tournaments such as the Tokyo Grand Slam or the inter-university championships reveal local enthusiasm for this discipline. The Japanese public, respectful and attentive, often applauds technical gestures, even when they come from the adversary.

Judo and Japanese Culture

Judo is not limited to tatami. His philosophy is deeply rooted in Japanese values: self-control, discipline, respect for others. It is close to the bushidō, the code of honor of the samurai, and some Zen concepts. In Japanese society, these values are passed on from an early age in schools, where judo is sometimes taught as physical and moral activity.

For travellers wishing to understand Japanese culture more intimately, judo can offer a concrete path, both physical and intellectual. It makes it possible to live Japan differently, through effort, listening to the body and relationship to the other.

Practical tips for visitors

Before practicing judo in Japan, some precautions are required:

Have a travel insurance covering combat sports.
Bring yourself a clean judogi (judo holding) or check the possibility of renting it on site.
Prevent dojo in advance, in Japanese or via a bilingual intermediary.
Respect implicit rules: punctuality, greetings, silence during explanations, clean body and nails.

Even as a viewer, a respectful attitude towards practitioners and places is essential.

Exploring Judo in Japan is one of the foundations of Japan’s physical and moral culture. Whether it is to observe a Kōdōkan training or to exchange techniques on a local tatami, this experience offers a sensitive and demanding approach to travel. For those who seek to understand Japan in its depth, judo is an exciting and enriching gateway.

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