What Are Dojo Students Called?

Uchi-deshi and Dōjō

Uchi-deshi means "inside student". It refers to a live-in student who trains under and assists a sensei full-time. This system exists in various Japanese arts.

A dōjō means "place of the way". It is a training hall for Japanese martial arts.

Sensei and Shihan in Martial Arts

The term "Sensei" means teacher. Those ranked fourth dan and above are always called Sensei. The most senior Aikido teachers may use the title Shihan, meaning “model”.

Karate Training and Etiquette

In Shinkyokushin karate, students progress through kyu ranks indicated by belt colors up to black belt. Keeping the dōjō clean is considered part of training.

What are students called in a dojo?

Teachers address students using last name and "san".

What do Senseis call their students?

Teachers call students by first name and chan or kun. Sensei is used for those ranked fourth dan and above.

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