Budō (武道) is a Japanese term that consists of two kanji characters meaning Martial (Bu) Way (Dō). This term typically encompasses all Japanese martial arts such as Karate-Dō, Judo, Kendo, Jodo, etc. More accurately, Budō can be translated as “to stop violence” or “to bring about peace.” Historically, warriors regarded their skills as tools for maintaining peace rather than solely for warfare. Sometimes war was necessary to restore peace. Ultimately, the aim of any Budō practice is to restore balance and harmony to any disturbance.

Understanding Budō Culture

Budō Culture represents the behaviors, rituals, traditions, beliefs, customs, and habits inherent in martial arts practice. It is a term used to describe a group of elite martial artists who follow the way and rituals of the warrior class. To understand Budō Culture, one must grasp the essence or heart of how Budō is practiced.

Key Aspects of Budō Culture:

  1. Seekers of Truth: Practitioners of Budō aspire for more than just daily routines or material gain. They possess abilities and skills that allow them to uniquely contribute to society.
  2. Misconceptions: Budō is often misunderstood as a combative sports practice focused on aggression and the pursuit of medals and trophies. This stereotype arises from poor understanding and misconceptions.
  3. Ethical Standards: Due to the potentially dangerous nature of martial arts practice, it is imperative for practitioners to adhere to ethical standards and the code of Bushidō (the way of the warrior). These rules, which have existed in Japan for centuries, must be followed by all martial artists.
  4. Bushidō: This demands both physical and non-physical qualities such as courtesy, sincerity, loyalty, discipline, and courage. These rules govern interactions among practitioners, exposing egos through the journey of discovering fear and pain, and bridging gaps against conflicts that may arise.

Historical Context

The culture of Budō is intertwined with the history of martial arts and the various schools/styles of martial practices that have emerged over the years.

  • Bodhidharma’s Influence: When Bodhidharma traveled to China in 527AD, he brought customs, rituals, and schools of thought associated with Chan Buddhism, which merged with the practices of the Shaolin Monastery, leading to the creation of Shaolin Kung-Fu.
  • Cultural Exchange: By the 1400s, China and Okinawans were trading goods, services, and martial arts, creating another dimension within the cultural entanglement of Budō.
  • Samurai Legacy: Budō culture is deeply rooted in the history and development of the Samurai dating back to the 12th century. The martial arts associated with this period are known as “Koryū” (古流, meaning old style), which were used on the battlefield and later developed by historical Samurai. These traditions continue to be practiced in modern dojos through teachings passed down by masters.

Examples of Budō Culture

For simplicity, Budō Culture can be categorized into three main areas:

  1. Dojo Rituals:
    • Removing shoes before entering the dojo
    • Paying respect to shrines, ancestors, and teachers
    • Bowing into the dojo and to opponents
    • Wearing specific attire
    • Studying classic texts such as Miyamoto Musashi’s writings, The Art of War, and the Bubishi
  2. Health Rituals:
    • Following wellness routines like Ikigai
    • Participating in tea ceremonies
    • Lighting incense
    • Engaging in Geisha rituals and Shiatsu massage
    • Studying the “Yellow Emperor’s Classic”
  3. Spiritual Rituals:
    • Practicing Zazen (seated meditation) and Mokuso (meditation at the beginning and end of practice)
    • Maintaining Zen gardens
    • Studying the teachings of masters and Zen philosophy
    • Practicing Sumi-e (Japanese ink painting)

Understanding Budō Culture involves appreciating the blend of physical practice, ethical conduct, historical context, and spiritual pursuit that defines the way of the warrior.

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Examples of Budō Culture: Below are some examples of the diversity of Budō Culture and how far it can stretch. For the purpose of simplicity, these examples have been categorised into the following 3 categories:

Dojo Rituals; removing of shoes, paying respect to shrines/ancestors/teachers. bowing into the Dojo, bowing to your opponent, wearing of a certain attire, study of the Miyamoto Musashi, study of the Art of War and study of Bubishi.

Health Rituals; following wellness routines e.g. Ikigai, tea ceremony, lighting of incense, Geisha rituals, Shiatsu and study of the Yellow Emperors Classic.

Spiritual Rituals; Zazen, Mokuso, Zen Gardens, Study of Masters, Study of Zen and Sumi-e.