Etiquette: Every Tradition Begins with Respect
Before the first technique is practiced, before the first lesson begins, there is etiquette.
In Japanese budō, etiquette is not about memorizing rules or performing rituals perfectly. It is how we express gratitude—for our teachers, our training partners, the traditions entrusted to us, and the space in which we practice together.
If you are visiting Mushinkan Kokyo for the first time, don’t worry about remembering everything. We’ll guide you. What matters most is simply arriving with curiosity, humility, and a willingness to learn.
Arriving at the Dojo
Please arrive a few minutes before class begins. This allows time to change, prepare, and settle before practice starts.
Shoes are removed before entering the dojo and placed neatly on the shoe rack. Sandals are available for walking between the dojo and the changing rooms. Before stepping onto the tatami, students ensure their feet, uniform, and training equipment are clean.
If you arrive after class has begun, simply enter quietly and wait on the wooden floor until the instructor invites you to join. Once acknowledged, bow toward the shōmen (front of the dojo), then to the instructor before stepping onto the mat.
Beginning and Ending Class
Each class begins and ends together.
Students line up according to rank and observe a few quiet moments of meditation before bowing to the kamidana, then to the instructor or senior student leading class.
At the beginning of practice we say Onegaishimasu, expressing our readiness to learn.
At the end of class we say Arigatō gozaimashita, offering our gratitude for the instruction and the opportunity to practice together.
Practicing Together
Aikido and Iaido are practiced through mutual respect.
When beginning with a partner, we bow and say Onegaishimasu. When practice concludes, we bow again and offer Arigatō gozaimashita.
Students are encouraged to practice with everyone. Each training partner offers a different perspective, and every class is an opportunity to learn from one another.
Conversation during class is kept to a minimum so attention can remain on the lesson. Questions are always welcome, but much of what we discover comes through movement rather than words.
Caring for the Dojo
The dojo belongs to everyone who practices here.
Students help maintain a clean, welcoming training space by caring for the tatami, returning equipment after use, and assisting with cleaning at the end of class. These small acts are part of training and an expression of gratitude for the place in which we practice.
Weapons, uniforms, and training equipment are treated with the same respect. Students always ask permission before handling another person’s equipment. Dojo weapons are available for guests and introductory classes, while regular students are encouraged to obtain their own equipment as their study progresses.
Safety
Practice should always be safe, thoughtful, and respectful.
If you are injured, feeling unwell, or need to step away from the mat, simply let the instructor know. Likewise, if something doesn’t feel right during practice, communicate with your training partner. Clear communication allows everyone to train safely and confidently.
Questions & Membership
Questions about memberships, scheduling, equipment, or the dojo are always welcome.
Whenever possible, please save these conversations for before or after class so everyone can make the most of their time on the tatami. If you anticipate an absence or have concerns about your membership, simply let us know. We’re always happy to help.