The Budo Charter(Budo Kensho)
Budo, the Japanese martial ways, have their origins in the age-old martial spiritof Japan. Through centuries of historical and social change, these forms oftraditional culture evolved from combat techniques (jutsu) into ways of selfdevelopment (do).

externalise the spirit underlying budo. They must do their best at all times,
winning with modesty, accepting defeat gracefully and constantly exhibiting
self-control.
ARTICLE 4: DOJO (Training Hall)
The dojo is a special place for training the mind and body. In the dojo, budopractitioners must maintain discipline, and show proper courtesies and respect.
The dojo should be a quiet, clean, safe and solemn environment.

Seeking the perfect unity of mind and technique, budo has been refined andcultivated into ways of physical training and spiritual development. The studyof budo encourages courteous behaviour, advances technical proficiency,
strengthens the body, and perfects the mind. Modern Japanese have inherited
traditional values through budo which continue to play a significant role in theformation of the Japanese personality, serving as sources of boundless energyand rejuvenation. As such, budo has attracted strong interest internationally,
and is studied around the world.

ARTICLE 5: TEACHING
Teachers of budo should always encourage others to also strive to better
themselves and diligently train their minds and bodies, while continuing tofurther their understanding of the technical principles of budo. Teachers should
not allow focus to be put on winning or losing in competition, or on technicalability alone. Above all, teachers have a responsibility to set an example asrole models.

However, a recent trend towards infatuation just with technical ability
compounded by an excessive concern with winning is a severe threat to theessence of budo. To prevent any possible misrepresentation, practitioners ofbudo must continually engage in self-examination and endeavour to perfectand preserve this traditional culture.

ARTICLE 6: PROMOTING BUDO
Persons promoting budo must maintain an open-minded and international
perspective as they uphold traditional values. They should make efforts tocontribute to research and teaching, and do their utmost to advance budo inevery way.

It is with this hope that we, the member organisations of the Japanese Budo
Association, established The Budo Charter in order to uphold the fundamental
principles of budo.

Member Organisations of the Japanese Budo Association

ARTICLE 1: OBJECTIVE OF BUDO
Through physical and mental training in the Japanese martial ways, budo
exponents seek to build their character, enhance their sense of judgement, andbecome disciplined individuals capable of making contributions to society atlarge.
ARTICLE 2: KEIKO (Training)
When training in budo, practitioners must always act with respect and courtesy,adhere to the prescribed fundamentals of the art, and resist the temptation topursue mere technical skill rather than strive towards the perfect unity of mind,
body and technique.
ARTICLE 3: SHIAI (Competition)
Whether competing in a match or doing set forms (kata), exponents must－9－

Zen Nihon Judo Renmei(All Japan Judo Federation)

Zen Nippon Kendo Renmei(All Japan Kendo Federation)

Zen Nihon Kyudo Renmei(All Nippon Kyudo Federation)

Nihon Sumo Renmei(Japan Sumo Federation)

Zen Nihon Karatedo Renmei(Japan Karatedo Federation)

Aikikai(Aikikai Foundation)

Shorinji Kempo Renmei(Shorinji Kempo Federation)

Zen Nihon Naginata Renmei(All Japan Naginata Federation)

Zen Nihon Jukendo Renmei(All Japan Jukendo Federation)

Nippon Budokan(Nippon Budokan Foundation)

Established on 23 April, 1987 by the Japanese Budo Association (Nippon BudoKyogikai)
English translation revised 16 September, 2004
©2004 The Japanese Budo Association－8－