Discover the Spirit of Karate and Shinto in the Sacred Tranquility of Hakone

Sharing Karate’s Philosophy of Harmony with the World

Karate in Japan grew as a martial art rooted in courtesy—the principle of “begin with courtesy, end with courtesy.” Beyond physical training, it cultivates character, strengthens the mind, and teaches respect for oneself and others. Carrying forward this spirit, Hirokazu Kanazawa, the last disciple of Gichin Funakoshi, the father of modern karate, founded the Shotokan Karate-Do International Federation (SKIF) in 1978.

The Shotokan Karate-Do International Federation honors individuality and nurtures spiritual growth

Known for dynamic movements, powerful techniques, and speed, Shotokan karate develops concentration, endurance, and agility, while emphasizing mental focus and etiquette. Today, it is among the world’s largest karate organizations, sharing traditional Japanese martial arts, spiritual values, and the philosophy of harmony globally.

On the day of your visit, your instructor is a headquarters teacher from SKIF, with extensive experience in both domestic and international competitions

Harmonize Mind and Body in a Sacred Space

This experience takes place in a martial arts hall located within the grounds of a historic shrine in Hakone. Before practice begins, a Shinto priest will guide you through a formal worship service, following traditional rituals. Walking along the shrine’s approach and purifying your hands and mouth at the temizuya (or chozuya, water pavilion), you will ease your mind and prepare your spirit.

The sound of flowing water gently purifies the soul

Inside the worship hall, you will spend a quiet moment in prayer—offering gratitude, setting your intentions for practice, and seeking personal growth. Since ancient times, Shinto and Budo have shared a deep spiritual bond. By centering yourself before entering the dojo, each movement in practice gains meaning, connecting body, mind, and spirit.

Straightening your posture amid the shrine’s solemn stillness

Learn the Spirit and History of Karate Through Practice

Upon entering the dojo, remove your shoes, stand barefoot, and take slow, steady breaths to prepare your mind. Then, change into a karate gi tailored to your height and feel your focus sharpen.

Putting on the karate gi brings a sense of purpose and composure

The instructor begins with a lecture on the history and spirit of karate—its etiquette, breathing, and the importance of respect for oneself and others. In the sacred setting of a shrine, these teachings take on a deeper resonance. Through practice, you will cultivate patience, concentration, and compassion, and discover how physical movement connects with the mind.

The dojo carries an atmosphere of quiet dignity

Practice Karate Etiquette and Fundamental Movements

The session begins with traditional Japanese etiquette: “begin with a bow, end with a bow.” By placing the knot of your gi’s obi at your tanden—the point just below your navel—you experience karate’s philosophy and the spirituality of Japanese culture through posture, focused breathing, and attentive gestures. Training in a quiet space, you gain an intuitive understanding of the mind-body connection.

Bowing shows respect for both opponent and dojo (venue features wooden flooring instead of tatami)

Standing barefoot on the dojo floor, you will feel grounded and connected. After warming up, practice begins with the fundamentals—thrusts, blocks, and kicks—focusing on balance, gaze, and coordination. Once your movements align, you will perform kata, sequences that unite attack and defense. With concentration, the mind clears, and you begin to face yourself.

Mastery of a thrust lies in delivering maximum power at the precise moment of impact

As a Wabunka-exclusive element, you will also witness an instructor perform kata, known as an embu (demonstration), revealing the skill and inner expression of the practitioner through flowing, complex movements.

Karate demonstrations reflect the personality and expression of each instructor (venue may vary)

Karate and Shinto: A Special Experience to Harmonize Mind and Body

This experience is a rare opportunity to engage with Japan’s spiritual culture through both ritual and movement. From worship at a sacred shrine to training in the dojo, every moment encourages reflection, awareness, and peace of mind.

A valuable experience that allows participants to fully experience Japan's proud traditional martial arts

Where the philosophies of karate and Shinto converge, you will find harmony between body and spirit—an experience that leaves you with a renewed sense of balance and clarity in everyday life.