cho: A traditional Japanese unit of measure, equal to about 120 yards.
dan: A grade or level of proficiency in kendo.
hakama: Long, pleated trousers resembling a skirt with a slit up the front. It is part of the kendo uniform; it was also commonly worn by scholars and students.
ippon: In martial arts, a decisive attack from which an opponent cannot recover.
ippon-zeoi: A one-armed, over-the-shoulder throw. The martial artist executes it by grabbing his opponent’s outstretched arm, placing it on his shoulder, and then throwing the opponent.
jo (or jyo): A traditional Japanese unit of measure, equivalent to about three yards.
jyuku: A school.
ken: A traditional Japanese unit of measure, equivalent to about six feet.
kiai: A concept common to the practice of many martial arts. It is a yell that’s meant not only to intimidate an opponent, but also to focus the warrior’s spirit and energy.
nabe: A hot pot dish, containing sliced beef, cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, and other vegetables.
reppu: The literal translation for this martial arts attack is “violent wind.”
ryû: A school or style of martial arts.
seigan: A stance in kendo in which the martial artist holds the sword at about mid-level with its tip pointed at the opponent’s eyes.
shaku: A traditional Japanese unit of measure, equivalent to about 11.8 inches.
Shitennô: Literally, “The Big Four.” This term is used to refer to the four most skilled people in a dojo, military unit, or any similar group.
shoji: A sliding door or screen made of paper.
shuriken: A ninja weapon. It’s a throwing star, usually with four blades.
tsubo: A traditional Japanese unit of measure, equivalent to about four square yards.
yakuza: Although this word is most often used to refer to the modern Japanese mafia, it can also be used to describe any gangster or violent thug.
yama arashi: Literally, “mountain storm.” It was a judo throw that the historical Saigô Shirô made famous.