Training Body and Mind

Shotokan karate is a traditional style of Japanese karate that was founded by Master Gichin Funakoshi (pictured on the right). Karate is an "empty hand" martial art that focuses on self-defense by teaching blocking, striking, punching, kicking, throwing, and joint locks using the weapons of the body. The ultimate aim of practicing Shotokan karate is not to win or lose a fight, but to seek the perfection of one's character through consistent training.

Juneau Shotokan Karate is an amateur, non-profit martial arts association dedicated to the practice of traditional Japanese karate. The basic objective is to provide its members a means of developing and strengthening both physically and mentally. To attain this goal, Juneau Shotokan Karate adheres to the same high standards and principles set forth by Master Gichin Funakoshi in the dojo kun, which is still repeated at the end of every class, and the niju kun, which explains in more detail the guiding principles of Master Funakoshi's philosophy: Character, Sincerity, Effort, Etiquette, and Self-Control.

Juneau Shotokan Karate is affiliated with the International Shotokan Karate Federation (ISKF). ISKF is a world-wide organization composed of over 70 member countries that was founded in 1977. Our local instructors are all members of ISKF who volunteer their time to teach the students. ​

​Visit the Links Page for more information about the International Shotokan Karate Federation other ISKF dojos. ​​