Classical Fighting Arts

Classical Fighting Arts Classical Fighting Arts is America's fastest growing martial arts promotional organization

05/18/2025

Meijin Uniform and karate belt custom Japanese embroidery.

Since 2001,Meijin has offered a Japanese embroidery service performed by theqrmown Japanese staff on he company premises.,on staff in their own Embroidery Studio on the company premises . Uniquely, they offer free name or style embroidery to any customer purchasing a new Meijin uniform. That is completely free of charge, in other words no set up or traslationn services. Unlike other companies, Meijin guarantees that the translation and spelling of the Japanese will be completely correct, in other words, our Japanese embroiderers will not embarrass you as so many other companies seem to be willing to!

Meijin has spent the last several weeks upgrading its hardware and software to expand our embroidery service and allow the addition many more English fonts and new designs. This work is now been completed, and will allow us to add to our already extensive selection and expand the type of designs that we ca.

Embroidering karate belts and uniforms presents special challenges due to the nature of the materials used in the construction of training clothes. We therefore use very heavy duty commercial Japanese sewing machines, we have and digitized our own fonts to make sure that they reproduce beautifully. We also use only the very best German-made embroidery threads and needles to produce sharp and clear embroidered images that will last as long as our uniforms do.

Please remember that translating Japanese is a very specialized subject that few people are capable of. We have had more than 20 years experience with Japanese embroidery and our company was founded in 1968, which shows that our commitment to karate is absolute. You can show our embroidery to any Japanese speaker and they will have no difficulty reading it or understanding its meaning.

Please visit our website for more details about our embroidery https://www.karatekaikan.com/elementor-3375/

Embroidery design
https://www.karatekaikan.com/product-category/embroidery-designs/

BElt Embroidery
https://www.karatekaikan.com/belt-embroidery/

The Evolution of the Karate Uniform.Although there are references to a visit in 1918, the first reliably documented acco...
02/12/2025

The Evolution of the Karate Uniform.

Although there are references to a visit in 1918, the first reliably documented account of a demonstration of karate on the Japanese mainland was in 1922 when Gichin Funakoshi performed karate at the All Japan Athletic Exhibition in 1922 at the Ochanomizu high school in Tokyo. This led to a request from Jigoro Kano, the founder of modern judo, to demonstrate at the Kodokan Judo Academy.

Kano had been very impressed with the karate of Chojun Miyagi and Kenwa Mabuni during a visit to Okinawa and was anxious to promote karate on the Japanese mainland to counter the popularity of modern Western boxing.

Kano was a very influential political figure in Japan, and his support guaranteed the public acceptance of karate, which had previously been viewed by the mainland Japanese, with some disdain, as nothing more than street fighting by Okinawan peasants.

To capitalize on this almost instant success this exposure gave him, Funakoshi adopted a slightly modified judo uniform for his karate students as well as the colored belt rank system instituted by Kano’s Kodokan Judo Academy. This associated karate with Kano’s prestigious art, thus giving it instant respectability in the eyes of Japanese citizens

Kano, in his youth, had studied Kito Ryu jujutsu and several other fighting systems. They all used simple Japanese working clothes for training, which were durable, practical, comfortable, and allowed free movement. Quite naturally, he adopted them for his judo with the addition of extra stitching so throws and grappling could be practiced.

Meijin Karate Uniforms, our brand of choice, would easily be recognized by the masters of yesteryear as quality products made by martial arts specialists for serious training, as opposed to flimsy garments copied from a catalog illustration, as so many are these days.

Photo below: Jigoro Kano with female students.

This segment was sponsored by Meijin Karate Uniforms.
https://www.karatekaikan.com/meijin-keikogi/

To wash or not to wash?Many karate people, even those who have trained for years, suggest that it is traditional not to ...
02/08/2025

To wash or not to wash?

Many karate people, even those who have trained for years, suggest that it is traditional not to wash one's belt. This is a complete fallacy!

The foundation of society in Japan is the Shinto religion, or more accurately, the Shinto philosophy, the basis of which is cleanliness and respect for the natural world. This is why when I take groups to Japan and Okinawa for traditional karate training, I try to make a point of organizing training in a Shinto temple as well as a brief ceremony (O Harai) to welcome, bless the participants, and stress the connection between karate and its mother culture..

Is this focus on cleanliness obvious in traditional dojo in Japan? Well, if you have trained with one of our groups in Okinawa, you will know the first thing the students do before training is wash the floor. This is because traditional training tends to be very demanding therefore, there is a tendency to perspire freely. The same is true after training; the students once again, as a group, wash the floor of the dojo leaving everything spotlessly clean.

It therefore makes no sense whatsoever to wear a belt that has not been washed and that has probably developed quite a distinctive odor. This, to the Japanese way of thinking, would be extremely rude to your “dojo kyodai,” (dojo brothers and sisters).

So please, keep your equipment clean at all times to show respect to those with whom you train, to your instructor, and to your dojo.

PS: What do Sumo wrestlers throw into the ring before they fight? Salt to purify the area where they will compete! Very Shinto.

Photo: CFA seminars in Okinawa in 2019 for members of the Toraguchi Dojo (Canada). After the O Harai ceremony in the shrine, (priest is third from right in the front row) our members trained with high-level sensei from the Oroku Dojo. After lunch, they had a lesson with Morio Higaonna Sensei at his private dojo.

Seminars are held every year; more information can be found here.

https://www.karatekaikan.com/spring-seminars-2021/

02/04/2025

Karate Belt Embroidery.

When our company was founded in the 1960s, there was only one way to embroider a karate belt. First, the design would be created using a “swing-needle” sewing machine by an operator using a knee to control the width of the strokes and his hands, coupled with a great deal of experience to create the Japanese characters. No corrections were possible once sewing had begun, and the results were often less than ideal.
The cover material would then be sewn around the cotton and felt core of the belt, with the stitches being applied directly over the design, which many of us found unacceptable.
In the late 1960s, the Tajima Company of Nagoya developed the computer-driven electro-mechanical embroidery machine, which used digitally created templates to sew Japanese characters with complete accuracy, directly onto the belt. These machines were also powerful enough to pe*****te the thickness of the belt easily, leaving the embroidered design unmarked by overlay stitching.
To further enhance the appearance of their embroidered belts and uniforms, Meijin spent months digitizing two traditional Japanese fonts, kaisho and gyosho, which they felt were most appropriate for the karate community.
The end result of this is stronger belts, beautiful embroidery that is not defaced with overlay stitching, and a free translation service that is guaranteed to produce accurate results. You can find more information about Japanese embroidery here.
https://www.karatekaikan.com/elementor-3375/

Kakemono (lit. hanging things).For at least 20 years, we have been producing dojo scrolls featuring the maxims of famous...
01/28/2025

Kakemono (lit. hanging things).

For at least 20 years, we have been producing dojo scrolls featuring the maxims of famous karate masters designed to inspire and promote the positive benefits of karate training.

These scrolls have been sold by the thousands to many countries around the world when they hang in dojo, have been presented to successful examination candidates, and given as gifts to improving students. We have always taken great care to make sure that they are corrects far as grammar and spelling are concerned, have used the best quality art papers, and shipped them flat so they arrive in perfect condition.

Responding to the very strong demand from students and instructors, we will be extending our range of scrolls to include many more maxims from karate masters. To maximize print quality, we have acquired a 12 color Canon commercial art printer which produces superb results when used with the new 100 LB card stock we are now using.

Additionally, for this new range of scrolls we will be using a very dynamic, some would say aggressive, traditional Japanese brush font which, when combined with the new paper and Canon 12 color ink printing process, gives results it would be difficult to equal.

Being produced in the 11" x 17 paper format it is easy and cheap to obtain mats and frames from suppliers such as Michaels and Hobby Lobby. We have found that an off-white mat combined with a simple (inexpensive) thin black frame creates something you can be really proud of, and that will set your dojo apart from others..

Whether you are buying to add class to your dojo, to reward outstanding students or simply as a gift for other karateka, you will be hard-pressed to find anything in this price range as appropriate, desirable, and authentic as our dojo scrolls.

Photo below:
CFA Seminar group training with Morio Higaonna Sensei at the Higaonna Dojo in Naha, Okinawa, Japan. Organized by the Classical Fighting Arts organization, members came from the US, UK, Bahrein, Kuwait, India, Singapore, Puerto Rico and Romania.
Notice the dojo scroll (kakemono) in the top right of the photo, an essential element in every traditional karate dojo.

https://www.karatekaikan.com/product-category/scrolls/

Karate Uniforms-What’s in a name? For many karate students and instructors,“GI” means a karate uniform (着), but this is ...
01/27/2025

Karate Uniforms-What’s in a name?

For many karate students and instructors,“GI” means a karate uniform (着), but this is not the complete story.
Firstly, the character GI (着 ) is usually pronounced “KI” as in kimono, people’s clothes, (着物) but the sound can change to make the word easier to pronounce in Japanese, as you will see.
Possibly, the most correct word for a karate uniform is keikogi (稽古着 practice clothes), which at least describes what the clothing is for. On the other hand, many of my friends who are instructors at the JKA HQ dojo in Tokyo routinely describe their uniforms as dougi, (道着 clothes for practicing the way).
Whatever you call your uniform it needs to be strong, comfortable, preferably made of 100% cotton canvas and most importantly, manufactured by experts specifically for karate training.
Few brands can meet this specification.
We can personally recommend the uniforms we use, Meijin, as easily exceeding these requirements, and doing so at a very modest price. The website you can buy them from also contains a lot of useful technical information about karate and you can also call them on 818 889 3856 or mail: mamasan@ dragon-tsunami.org

https://www.karatekaikan.com/meijin-keikogi/

01/10/2025

Meijin Karate Uniforms
Since 1968

Since our our company first opened its doors in 1968, we have been been dedicated to providing the finest equipment and best service. We have endeavored to improve every part of our business, and to adopt every modern innovation to improve our customer service.

Why have we been chosen by many of the most famous karate masters in the world as their supplier and/or publisher; as a government contractor, and as the publishing house of choice for the Okinawan Prefectural Government? Our karate artwork has even been incorporated into the fuselage logos of Japanese airlines.

The answer is obvious; more than a half a century of experience, a large and dedicated customer base, a reputation for the highest quality goods and best service, plus a 98% Facebook rating. Additionally our staff are very experienced, expert in their fields, and bi-lingual. If you have a question about our products, do not hesitate to contact us at 818 889 3856 or e-mail: [email protected]

We are open from 8:00AM - 8:00 PM PT every day except Sunday.

Our Meijin karate uniforms and embroidered belts are internationally famous. Please go here for further details.

Why Meijin? �https://www.karatekaikan.com/meijin-keikogi/

The History of Meijin Uniforms. � https://www.karatekaikan.com/meijin-history/

Japanese Belt and Uniform Embroidery
https://www.karatekaikan.com/elementor-3375/

SHIN TENCHI DOJO UPDATEExperience the essence of Okinawan karate and culture at the Shin (New) Tenchi Dojo. Nestled in 1...
01/10/2025

SHIN TENCHI DOJO UPDATE

Experience the essence of Okinawan karate and culture at the Shin (New) Tenchi Dojo. Nestled in 10 acres of serene, virgin woodland, our purpose-built traditional headquarters will serve as a sanctuary for martial arts enthusiasts. As a proudly owned 501 C3 foundation, the Shin Tenchi Dojo is dedicated to promoting the rich heritage of Okinawan karate and its profound philosophy.

Join us for exclusive seminars led by the finest instructors from Japan designed to deepen your understanding of, and skills in this ancient art. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or a curious newcomer, our Foundation will offer a unique opportunity to connect with masters and fellow students in a tranquil, supportive environment.

Embrace the spirit of Okinawa as you train, learn, and grow within the Shin Tenchi Dojo community. Discover the true value of traditional martial arts and with it, the depth of Okinawan culture.

PHOTO:

Phase 1 of construction as seen from the parking area.

MEIJIN KARATE UNIFORMS AND BELTSWe have all sizes of Meijin belts and uniforms stock, ensuring the perfect fit for every...
12/14/2024

MEIJIN KARATE UNIFORMS AND BELTS

We have all sizes of Meijin belts and uniforms stock, ensuring the perfect fit for everyone in your dojo. With processing and shipping available until December 24th, there’s still time to receive your brand new uniforms just in time for the holidays. Enjoy the added bonus of free Japanese name or style embroidery, making your uniform truly unique. Don’t miss out—visit our website or call us at 818-889-3856. We’re open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, Pacific Time.

We embroider with commercial Japanese machines using the best threads and needles from Germany. Every design is hand digitized, sewn by Japanese experts and guaranteed to be 100% accurate as far as spelling and grammar are concerned. Don't worry, we will not embarrass you!

https://www.karatekaikan.com/elementor-3375/

A Karate Dojo is Born: Shin Tenchi Dojo.Those you who have attended the karate seminars at the original Tenchi Dojo in G...
12/08/2024

A Karate Dojo is Born: Shin Tenchi Dojo.
Those you who have attended the karate seminars at the original Tenchi Dojo in Georgia with Sensei as famous as Morio Higaonna, Zenpo Shimabukuro, Yoshio Kuba, Seisho Itokazu, Masakazu Kuramoto, probably heard talk of the new dojo that was then in the planning stage.
Well, here is its birth in the midst of 10 acres of beautiful virgin woodlands close by the city of Dalton, GA.
The brainchild of veteran Goju Ryu instructor, Mickey Brock, it is being built in the traditional Japanese manner of wood with a red tilled roof, and doors that can open to efficiently ventilate the dojo on three sides during the warm summer months.
Already famous internationally, this Tenchi Dojo project has already received the support of two Uchina Minkan Taishi (Government appointed Okinawan Civil Ambassadors), Additionally, three previous Tenchi Dojo seminar events organized by this dojo in conjunction with the Karate Do Kenkyukai were sponsored by the Okinawan Prefecture, Dragon Associates Inc., and Meijin Karate Uniforms.
Seminars with internationally famous instructors are already being planned for 2025; we will keep you informed.

MEIJIN KARATE BELTS.The large shipments of Meijin karate uniforms use just received includes size 7 Meijin PRO cotton an...
12/07/2024

MEIJIN KARATE BELTS.

The large shipments of Meijin karate uniforms use just received includes size 7 Meijin PRO cotton and satin black belts which were in brief supply for a short perriod. We are now fully stocked with all Meijin products and continue to offer fast shipping, excellent service and, of course, FREE embroidery on all new Meijin uniforms purchased. Even when embroidery is requested, we still ship within 72 hours of receipt of order in most cases.
MEIJIN KARATE BELTS.

The large shipments of Meijin karate uniforms use just received includes size 7 Meijin PRO cotton and satin black belts which were in brief supply for a short perriod. We are now fully stocked with all Meijin products and continue to offer fast shipping, excellent service and, of course, FREE embroidery on all new Meijin uniforms purchased. Even when embroidery is requested, we still ship within 72 hours of receipt of order in most cases.

Call us at 818 889 3856 or see
https://www.karatekaikan.com/belt-embroidery/
https://www.karatekaikan.com/product-category/karate-belts-2/

The Meijin Difference DESIGN:�The design committee incited instructors as well known as Morio Higaonna Sensei and Shinyu...
12/04/2024

The Meijin Difference
DESIGN:�The design committee incited instructors as well known as Morio Higaonna Sensei and Shinyu Gushi Sensei. All their suggestions were incorporated into the design of Meijin uniforms.https://www.karatekaikan.com/meijin-keikogi/
QUALITY:�Unlike the majority of manufacturers, our 100% pure cotton canvas is woven to our own specifications exclusively for Meijin karate uniforms. This ensures your comfort, freedom of movement, durability, and an appearance that cannot be equaled.
SIZING:�A range of sizes and half sizes from 3-12 ensures that we can fit almost everyone.
FEATURES:�Underarm gussets for freedom of movement. Bartacking at stress points. Waist and shoulders lined with cotton gauze for extra comfort.
JAPANESE EMBROIDERY: �FREE OF CHARGE We will expertly embroider your name or style onto a new Meijin for FREE. Using only the best Japanese industrial embroidery machines and German embroidery silks, our highly experienced Japanese embroiderers will create a personalized uniform for you in just a few days that you will be proud to wear for years. Just as important, we GUARANTEE that your translation will be correct. We do not charge for setup, translation, or embroidery.�https://www.karatekaikan.com/elementor-3375/
PRICING:�Remarkably reasonable. Our best-selling “Tropical” uniform in size 5, with Japanese embroidery. will cost you less than $100 and will be with you around a week after you order it.
ABOUT US.�We have been producing and distributing the finest quality martial arts equipment since 1968. Since 1980 we have produced dozens of instructional books and DVDs with the greatest living karate instructors such as Morio Higaonna, Shinyu Gushi, Hirokazu Kanazawa, Masafumi Shiomitsu, and many others. In 2017 we were commissioned by the Okinawan Prefectural Government to produce and publish the book, “Okinawa: Birthplace of Karate” the definitive history of karate to celebrate the opening of the Karate Kaikan in Okinawa.�https://www.karatekaikan.com/meijin-history/

Callus on 818 889 3856 or visitor web site at www.karatekaikan.com

Address

Westlake Village, CA

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 8pm
Tuesday 8am - 8pm
Wednesday 8am - 8pm
Thursday 8am - 8pm
Friday 8am - 8pm
Saturday 8am - 8pm

Telephone

+18188893856

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Classical Fighting Arts posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Classical Fighting Arts:

Shortcuts

Share

Category