Karate Culture

These articles tell you a bit more about karate “culture” - some of the things we do and why we do them.

• Bowing

  The “handshake” of karate.

• Osu!

  What does “osu!” mean, and when do we say it?

• Addressing Others

  How to address, and refer to, other people in karate class.

• Japanese Language

  Explaining the use of the Japanese language in karate class.

• Opening & Closing Class

  The customary way to begin and end a Shotokan karate class.

• The Dojo Kun

  The “Pledge of Allegiance” of karate.

• Kiai

  Why we shout so much in karate.