Dai Nippon Butoku Kai
An established Japanese martial arts authority dedicated to preserving the virtues and traditions of classical Budo.
History of the Dai Nippon Butoku Kai
The Dai Nippon Butoku Kai was officially founded in 1895 in Kyoto under Imperial patronage and quickly became Japan’s national authority for martial arts. Before World War II, it grew to more than three million members and recognized tens of thousands of qualified instructors across many disciplines. During this period, DNBK served as the highest governing body for Japanese Budo.
During the war, DNBK came under direct control of the government and military, leading to the loss of its original independence. Following Japan’s defeat in 1945, Allied occupation authorities ordered the organization to dissolve in 1946, confiscating its property and removing its leadership.
In 1953, after Japan regained sovereignty, DNBK was reestablished and returned to its original ideals, focusing on peace, education, and cultural preservation. In the decades that followed, it expanded internationally, welcoming qualified practitioners from around the world while remaining committed to preserving the true spirit and traditions of classical Japanese Budo.
Kyoto Budo Center (former Butokuden hall)
Mission and Philosophy
The Dai Nippon Butoku Kai is devoted to the preservation and transmission of classical Japanese Budo. Its mission is to safeguard traditional martial disciplines through education, research, and the maintenance of proper standards for instruction and conduct. Through these efforts, DNBK seeks to ensure the accurate continuation of martial culture and the integrity of Budo traditions.
The Dai Nippon Butoku Kai regards Budo as a lifelong path of disciplined training that cultivates both technical skill and moral character. Practice emphasizes respect, discipline, responsibility, and self-control, recognizing that true martial ability must be grounded in proper conduct. By valuing demonstrated ability and dedication beyond lineage, DNBK upholds the spirit of classical Budo and supports practitioners in carrying these traditions forward with sincerity and purpose.