Dojo

From Karate, Kungfu, Wrestling, Mixed Fighting Information Source

A dojo (道場 dōjō) is a term used in Japanese martial arts that refers to a formal training hall. It is typically considered the formal gathering place for students of a martial arts style to conduct training, examinations and other related encounters.The equivalent Korean term for "dōjō" is "dojang," and very similar disciplines and customs are followed as outlined in the following.

In Japanese, dōjō (道場, dōjō?) means literally "place of the Way".

A proper Japanese-style martial arts dōjō is considered special and is well cared for by its users. In many styles it is traditional to conduct a ritual cleaning of the dōjō at the end of each training session (called souji, which translates from Japanese as "cleaning"). Besides the obvious hygienic benefits of regular cleaning it also serves to reinforce the fact that dojo are supposed to be supported and managed by the student body, not the school's instructional staff. This attitude has become lost in many modern, commercial dōjō that are founded and run by a small group of people or instructors. In fact, it is not uncommon that in traditional schools (koryu), dōjō are rarely used for training at all, instead being reserved for more symbolic or formal occasions. The actual training is conducted typically outdoors or in a less formal area.

Many traditional dōjō follow a prescribed pattern with shomen and various entrances that are used based on student and instructor rank laid out precisely. Typically students will enter in the lower-left corner of the dōjō (in reference to the shomen) with instructors in the upper right corner. Shomen typically contains kamiza - an area for a shintō shrine and other artifacts. Many other artifacts may be displayed throughout the dōjō, such as kanban that authorize the school in a style or strategy, and items such as taiko drums or armor (yoroi). It is not uncommon to find the name of the dōjō and the dōjō kun (roughly "dōjō rules") displayed promiently at shomen as well. Visitors also typically have a special place reserved, depending on their rank and station. Weapons and other training gear will normally be found on the back wall.

A hombu dōjō or honbu dōjō of a style is considered the administrative and stylistic headquarters or a particular martial arts style or group. This does not necessarily mean that they are large or ostentatious.

Dōjō is also used to describe the meditation halls where Zen Buddhists practice zazen meditation. It is sometimes used instead of the term "zendo" which is more specific, and more widely used.