Gichin Funakoshi is world famous as one of karate’s great masters. Born and raised in Okinawa Prefecture, Sensei Funakoshi is credited with organizing the first public demonstrations of karate, which led to the introduction of the ancient art to the rest of Japan and thereafter the world. As part of his teaching and studies, he always emphasized the spiritual aspects of Karate-do and to that end developed the Dojo Kun (Way of the dojo). The practice of these principles was not intended to be exclusive to only karate training but to all endeavors in life.
DOJO KUN
SEEK PERFECTION OF CHARACTER
BE FAITHFUL
ENDEAVOR TO EXCEL
RESPECT OTHERS
REFRAIN FROM VIOLENT BEHAVIOR
Master Gichin Funakoshi,
the Father of modern karate
