Explore the diverse sports scene in Japan, including traditional martial arts like judo, kendo, and karate, as well as popular activities like golf. Learn about sports clubs where English is spoken, fitness routines, and outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. Discover options for staying active, finding suitable training facilities, and embracing Japan’s rich sports culture.
Been missing your pitching wedge? Wondering what the links are like in Japan? Hoping that tee time is still an option in your new Tokyo home? If so, we have got some ideas for you. You may know the re…
Japan is not only surrounded by water but also boasts abundant rivers, lakes, and marshes inland. With high water quality and rich aquatic life, it’s no surprise that Japan consumes one of the largest…
Running has been a popular sport in Japan at least since the end of World War II. Some might say it’s the second most popular sport in the country—after baseball, of course. And why not? Running is re…
Kyudo is a traditional Japanese martial art focused on discipline, spirituality, and self-improvement through archery. This article explores the rich history, cultural significance, and unique practic…
This page contains affiliate links. If you are wondering if there are any nearby English-Speaking gyms or fitness clubs in Tokyo, this is a perfect article for you. You can also learn about some regul…
Emerging from the tranquil islands of Okinawa, Karate is esteemed as one of the most iconic martial arts worldwide. Renowned for its compelling repertoire, including a symphony of punches, agile kicks, powerful elbow strikes, and artistic open-hand techniques, Karate figureheads the meaning of "empty hand" in Japanese. Japan abounds with authentic Dojos (training halls), passionately preserving the discipline, each with its distinct sub-style—many of these esteemed Dojos open cultural bridges by offering engaging Karate classes in English.
If karate is the most well-known of Japan's empty-handed martial arts, judo comes in second. Whereas karate stresses punches, judo, which is Japanese for "gentle manner," emphasizes throws and takedowns. Strikes are outlawed in competition, and the goal is to pin or otherwise paralyze an opponent with a range of joint locks and choke moves.
Kendo, or the "Way of the Sword," is a Japanese sport descended from the samurai swordsman style. A contest consists of two individuals armed with bamboo swords called shinai while wearing armored jackets and helmets. The two combatants strike and thrust at each other with repeated yells and shouts as they duel, attempting to land a strike on defined targets, including the head, wrists, and torso. The first combatant to three points wins the match.
Aikido is a style of Japanese martial arts that is relatively new. Aikido focuses on defending its practitioners without injuring their attackers. Aikido does not have tournaments or fights since the purpose is to work and train together rather than defeating an opponent. Aikido means "way of the harmonious spirit" in Japanese.
This page contains affiliate links. Mt. Fuji, the most well-known iconic landmark in all of Japan, lies just to the southwest of Tokyo. Visible from the capital on a clear day as a specter at the v…
To the untrained eye, Sumo is a simple pushing and thrusting match between two overweight men in a small ring. Bouts are called when one of the fighters is forced out of the ring. As simple as it gets…
It’s snow season in Japan, and whether you’re an avid skier or snowboarder, or just looking to bring the kids to have some fun in the snow, there are many topnotch ski resorts just a day trip away fro…
This article is contributed by DISCOVA. Sports are a significant part of Japanese culture. Both traditional martial art such as Karate, Kendo and western import like Baseball are popular with both man…
This page contains affiliate links. The universe of sports is a magnificent way to kick the sedentary blues to the curb, bask in the glow of camaraderie, and have a rollicking good time. Yet, sometime…
Do you long to play golf in Japan? Are you wondering what it’s like? How is it different from playing in your home country? Japanese golf courses are sophisticated and well organized. A day at the gol…
Tokyo offers a healthy dose of competition, team building, and sportsmanship for expat families. You can find an activity that suits your needs whether you are a child or an adult. Check out our guide for more information on some of the best sport clubs, teams, and activities in Tokyo.
By PLAZA HOMES
© 2025 Japan Living Guide. All Rights Reserved.