Japan Traditional Sports

Japan has a rich and diverse culture that is reflected in its traditional sports. Some of the most famous traditional Japanese sports are:


1) Sumo Wrestling 💪 


Japan’s national sport based on wrestling. Two sumo wrestlers try to push each other out of a circular ring or make them touch the ground with anything other than their feet. Sumo has a long history and is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and religion. Sumo wrestlers live in communal stables and follow strict rules and rituals. Sumo tournaments are held six times a year in different cities and attract large crowds of spectators.


2)Kendo ( Swordsmanship)🔪🎍


Japanese martial art with bamboo swords. Kendo is derived from the ancient swordsmanship of the samurai warriors. Two kendo practitioners wear protective armor and helmets and try to strike each other with bamboo swords called shinai. Kendo emphasizes mental discipline, respect, and etiquette. Kendo is widely practiced in Japan and around the world. 


3) Judo👐💪


 Japanese martial art based on unbalances and throws. Judo was founded by Jigoro Kano in the late 19th century as a way of physical and moral education. Judo involves grappling, throwing, pinning, and choking techniques. Judo is an Olympic sport and one of the most popular martial arts in the world. Judo teaches self-defense, fitness, and respect.


4) Kyudo ( Archery)🎯


Japanese martial art of archery. Kyudo means “the way of the bow” and is considered a form of meditation and spiritual training. Kyudo practitioners use long bows made of bamboo and wood and aim at a target from a distance. Kyudo requires concentration, posture, breathing, and harmony. Kyudo is practiced in schools, clubs, and temples.


5) Karate 👊


Karate is one of the most famous traditional Japanese martial arts. It originated in Okinawa, a group of islands south of Japan, where it was influenced by Chinese martial arts. Karate means “empty hand” and involves using various parts of the body as weapons, such as punches, kicks, elbows, and open-hand strikes. Karate also teaches mental discipline, respect, and etiquette. Karate has many styles and schools, but some of the most popular ones in Japan are Shito-ryu, Wado-ryu, Shotokan-ryu, and Goju-ryu. Karate became an Olympic sport in 2020 at the Tokyo Games.


  6)Aikido 🎏


Japanese martial art for defense without injuring the attacker. Aikido was developed by Morihei Ueshiba in the early 20th century as a synthesis of various martial arts and philosophies. Aikido uses circular movements, joint locks, and throws to redirect the force of the attacker. Aikido promotes peace, harmony, and self-improvement. Aikido is practiced by millions of people around the world.


These are some of the most famous traditional Japanese sports, but there are many others that you can also enjoy and appreciate. Japan is a country with a rich and diverse sporting culture that reflects its history and values. I hope you found this information interesting and helpful. 😊🎌

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