Budo is a Japanese term that refers to martial arts that are practiced for personal development, self-improvement, and spiritual growth, rather than solely for combat. The word “budo” is made up of two characters: “bu” which means “warrior” or “military”, and “do” which means “way” or “path.”
Budo practitioners aim to develop themselves physically and mentally, with an emphasis on discipline, respect, and humility. The ultimate goal is to achieve a state of inner peace and harmony, and to bring balance to all aspects of life.
Budo includes a wide range of martial arts, such as Karate, Judo, Kendo, Aikido, and Iaido. These martial arts are often taught in a traditional, formal setting, and students are expected to follow a strict code of conduct and respect for their instructors and fellow students.
Budo training typically includes techniques for striking, throwing, and grappling, as well as methods of physical and mental conditioning. It also includes the practice of kata (forms) and randori (free-style practice) which are used to develop proper technique and form, as well as to improve timing, speed, and power.
In summary, Budo is a Japanese term that refers to martial arts that are practiced for personal development, self-improvement, and spiritual growth, rather than solely for combat. Budo practitioners aim to develop themselves physically and mentally, with an emphasis on discipline, respect, and humility, and ultimate goal is to achieve a state of inner peace and harmony.
Karate is considered a Budo. Budo practitioners aim to develop themselves physically and mentally, with an emphasis on discipline, respect, and humility. Karate, as well as other martial arts such as Judo and Kendo, are considered Budo.
Bujutsu, on the other hand, is a term that refers to martial arts that were developed specifically for warfare and combat. These martial arts were used by the military and were focused on quickly and effectively defeating an opponent in battle. Bujutsu include arts such as Iaijutsu (sword drawing), Jujutsu (unarmed combat) and spear arts.
So, Karate is considered a Budo, not a Bujutsu, because it was developed for personal development, self-improvement, and spiritual growth, rather than solely for warfare and combat.
Karate has its roots in the traditional Okinawan martial arts which were developed for self-defense and personal development, as well as for sport and competition. However, after Karate was introduced to mainland Japan, it was modified to be more suitable for sport, competition and physical fitness.
It is possible that a specific school, style or teacher may emphasize on the combative aspect of Karate, and may train their students to be more combat-ready, in that case it could be considered as a Bujutsu. But this would be an exception rather than the norm, as the majority of Karate schools and styles focus on personal development and sport.
It’s also worth mentioning that, Karate as a sport is governed by the World Karate Federation (WKF) which has rules and regulations for competition, and it does not include any forms of weapons or ground fighting techniques, which are typical to Bujutsu.
In summary, Karate is primarily considered a Budo, but it is possible for a specific school, style or teacher to emphasize on the combative aspect of Karate and train their students to be more combat-ready, in that case it could be considered as a Bujutsu.
