The Kanji and its Meaning in Kyokushin  
     
  Kanji is the representation of the word Kyokushinkai, which is the name of the ryu or style. Translated, "kyoku" means "ultimate", "shin" means "truth" or "reality" and kai means "to join" or "to associate". Kyokushinkai, in essence means "the society of the ultimate truth".      
     
 

The Kyokushin Kanji is very popular and can be seen in almost any country around the world. Kyokushin is a traditional martial art and is the largest form of Karate in the world. This style became famous for its full contact tournaments (no padding) and the fighters were very strong defeating most opponents. Kyokushin has long been known and tagged with the nickname "The Strongest Karate".

  
     
  The Kanku symbol  
     
  The Kanku symbol can be seen on your gi and belt. This symbol is based on five circles, which signifies the five continents of the earth. Sosai Mas Oyama ensured that Kyokushin reached all five continents. This is referenced from a senior kata called Kanku (sky glazing).      
     
  Techniques and training  
     
  Kyokushin training consists of three main elements: technique, forms, and sparring. These are sometimes referred to as the three "K's" after the Japanese words, kihon (basics), kata (forms), and kumite (sparring). Kyokushin has influenced many of the "full-contact" schools of karate, emphasizing realistic combat, physical toughness, and practicality in its training curriculum. Today, there are over 15 million people in the world who are doing Kyokushin.