At the SeiShinKan dojo, we use Japanese language to enhance student’s understanding of the native language of karate. Knowing the true meaning of terms and movements give students’ a great picture in their mind of what to do. We also treasure the tradition of training using the same words as the karate masters of olden times. Also, when the SeiShinKan dojo hosts Japanese visitors like Kaicho Kinjo Takashi, known as one of the greatest living martial artists in Okinawa, our students benefit from knowing a significant amount of Japanese language as it pertains to martial arts and etiquette.

On this page, we will regularly share Japanese terms for you to practice and share with your family at home!

---

Sei-Shin-Kan

Sei – Honesty

Shin – Truth

Kan – Place

 

Kara-te

Kara – Empty

Te – Hands

Do – The Way

 

Do-jo

Do – The Way or The Method

Jo – Place

 

Ko-bu-do

Ko – Ancient

Bu – Stop the Fight (Martial Arts)

Do – The Way

 

Rei

Respect or Manners (this is the command to bow)

 

O-ne-gai-shi-masu

If you please (this is a very polite way to begin any exercise)

 

Ari-gato Go-zai-masu

Thank you very much (in a polite way)

 

Hai

Yes or I understand

 

Kai-cho

Kai – Organization

Cho – Head or President

 

Sen-sei

Sen – First

Sei – Born (refers to a teacher or instructor)

 

Kon-ni-chi-wa

Good Afternoon

 

Kon-ban-wa

Good Evening (after sunset)

 

Sa-yo-na-ra

Good-Bye

 

Muzukasii

Difficult

 

Renshu

Practice