Master how to Count in Japanese for Karate: Learn Numbers 1-10 with Pronunciation & Meaning

If you’ve ever stepped into a karate dojo, you’ve likely heard instructors counting in Japanese—”Ichi, Ni, San…” 

Learning how to count in Japanese is an essential part of traditional karate training, Japanese counting is used in everything from warming up to practicing kihon (basics), kata (forms), and kumite (sparring). 

But have you ever wondered why some numbers sound different at times? Or why certain pronunciations are preferred in a dojo setting?

In this guide, we’ll break down how to count in Japanese from 1 -10, explain the variations in pronunciation, and provide a helpful pronunciation table with audio to ensure you’re saying them correctly. 

Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned karateka looking for a refresher, this resource will help you learn how to count in Japanese confidently and deepen your connection to traditional karate practice.

Key Takeaways

• Japanese numbers are key in karate training
• Counting builds cultural understanding
• Proper pronunciation shows respect
• Numbers connect us to martial arts tradition
• Learning Japanese numbers improves communication in the dojo

Why Learn How to Count in Japanese?

Counting in Japanese isn’t just a tradition in karate—it’s a way to connect with the roots of the art. 

Since karate originated in Okinawa and was later influenced by mainland Japan, Japanese terminology became the standard in dojos worldwide.

 Counting in Japanese helps maintain that tradition and shows respect for karate’s history and culture.

Beyond tradition, there are practical benefits too. Counting in Japanese keeps everyone in sync during training. 

Whether you’re practicing kihon (basic techniques), moving through kata (pre-arranged forms), or doing repetitions in a group, a universal counting system ensures that students stay coordinated—no matter where they train.

For beginners, learning how to count in Japanese builds familiarity with common dojo commands. For experienced karateka, it reinforces focus, rhythm, and breathing control. Plus, it’s always fun to expand your knowledge and feel more connected to karate’s origins!

Counting from 1 to 10 in Japanese (with Table & Pronunciation Guide)

In karate, we count in Japanese to keep rhythm, stay focused, and honor tradition. The numbers 1 to 10 are used in warm-ups, kihon (basics), kata, and even kumite (sparring). 

While the counting system is simple, you might notice that some numbers have more than one pronunciation. Don’t worry—we’ll explain why below!

Here’s a handy reference table to help you learn and pronounce each number correctly:

Tips for Practicing Your Counting

• Say each number out loud while performing punches, kicks, or blocks to build muscle memory.
• Listen to the pronunciation and repeat it slowly at first, then try counting faster.
• When training in a group, listen carefully to your instructor’s pronunciation and follow along.

Now that you know the basics, let’s dive deeper into why some numbers have different pronunciations!

The Nuances of Japanese Counting in Karate

If you’ve been training in karate for a while, you may have noticed that some numbers have multiple pronunciations. Sometimes you’ll hear “Shi” for 4, while other times it’s “Yon.” The same goes for “Shichi” (7) and “Nana,” or “Ku” (9) and “Kyuu.” But why do these variations exist?

The answer lies in both language and culture. Some numbers have alternative pronunciations to avoid confusion or negative associations, while others are preferred in certain settings for clarity. Let’s take a closer look at why these differences matter in karate training.

Why Do Some Numbers Have Different Pronunciations?

In Japanese, numbers can sometimes be pronounced in multiple ways due to historical linguistic influences and practical concerns. In karate, we typically count from 1 to 10 using the on’yomi (Chinese-based readings) of numbers, but some numbers have alternative pronunciations due to superstition or clarity:

• 4 (Shi / Yon) – The word “Shi” (し) sounds like 死 (which means “death”). Because of this, many people prefer to use “Yon” instead, especially in formal settings like a dojo.
• 7 (Shichi / Nana) – “Shichi” (しち) sounds similar to “Ichi” (いち) (1), which can cause confusion, especially in fast-paced training. To avoid this, “Nana” is often used.
• 9 (Ku / Kyuu) – “Ku” (く) sounds like 苦 (which means “suffering” or “pain”). To avoid negative connotations, “Kyuu” is generally preferred.

Because karate is a highly disciplined art that requires precise commands, instructors often favor the clearer versions—”Yon” (4), “Nana” (7), and “Kyuu” (9)—to ensure students can follow along easily.

Why Some Instructors Still Use the Original Pronunciations

While many dojos prefer “Yon” and “Nana” for clarity, some instructors still use the original “Shi” and “Shichi.” This choice is often influenced by tradition, cultural familiarity, or a specific teaching approach.

1. Preserving Tradition

Karate has deep historical roots, and some instructors choose to teach Japanese numbers exactly as they were originally used. If their sensei or organization traditionally used “Shi” and “Shichi,” they may continue this practice to maintain authenticity.

2. Cultural Familiarity

In Japan, both versions of these numbers are widely understood.  Japanese instructors—or those trained extensively in Japan—may naturally use symbols like   “Shi” and “Shichi” because these pronunciations don’t carry the same superstitions outside of specific contexts.

3. Style-Specific Preferences

Different karate styles (Shotokan, Shito-Ryu, Goju-Ryu, Wado-Ryu, etc.) may have slightly different conventions regarding counting. Some organizations follow their own historical preferences, and students may notice variations depending on the dojo or instructor.

4. Developing Mental Flexibility

Some instructors intentionally use “Shi” and “Shichi” to ensure students recognize both forms. This approach helps students adapt if they visit another dojo, attend an international seminar, or compete where different pronunciations might be used.

5. Reinforcing Focus and Discipline

Using both variations challenges students to stay alert and pay attention to the instructor’s commands. In fast-paced training environments, this added challenge can improve a student’s ability to respond quickly and correctly.

Why Does This Matter in Karate Training?

Understanding the nuances of Japanese counting isn’t just about getting the words right—it’s about improving your awareness and deepening your connection to karate’s cultural roots. Here’s why it’s important:

• Clear counting keeps training synchronized, especially in group drills.
• Knowing multiple pronunciations prevents confusion in different dojos or competitions.
• Respecting the cultural significance of numbers enhances your understanding of karate’s heritage.

Whether your dojo prefers “Yon” or “Shi,” “Nana” or “Shichi,” the key is to be aware of both versions and adapt as needed. 

The more you train, the more natural counting in Japanese will become!

How to Practice Counting in Karate

Learning to count in Japanese is more than just memorizing numbers—it’s about building rhythm, coordination, and mental focus in your training. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced karateka looking for a refresher, here are some effective ways to integrate Japanese counting into your practice.

1. Count Out Loud While Practicing Techniques

One of the simplest and most effective ways to internalise Japanese counting is to say each number out loud as you perform techniques. This creates a strong mind-body connection and helps with muscle memory. Try the following drills:

• Punching Drill: Perform 10 straight punches (choku-zuki) while counting from Ichi to Juu.
• Kicking Drill: Execute a controlled series of front kicks (mae-geri) while counting.
• Blocking Drill: Perform basic blocks (uke-waza) in sequence while counting to 10.

Saying the numbers out loud keeps your breathing steady and reinforces your focus during movement.

2. Listen and Repeat for Pronunciation Practice

Pronouncing the numbers correctly is just as important as remembering them. To improve your pronunciation:

• Listen to your instructor carefully when they count during class.
• Use the audio guide to listen and practice at home.
• Repeat the numbers slowly and clearly, paying attention to tricky ones like Shichi (7) and Juu (10).

Practicing correct pronunciation helps you develop better communication skills in a traditional karate setting.

3. Kihon Drills with Japanese Counting

Kihon or kata practice without a partner is a great way to refine techniques while reinforcing counting skills. Try:

• Performing a kata sequence while counting each movement in Japanese.
• Combining strikes and blocks into a freestyle drill while maintaining a steady count.
• Moving in different stances and coordinating each transition with a number.

This approach builds fluency in movement while solidifying your knowledge of Japanese counting.

4. Train with a Partner

Training with a partner makes counting more interactive and engaging. You can:

• Call and Respond: One partner calls out numbers while the other executes techniques.
• Speed Drills: Increase the pace of counting to challenge reflexes and timing.
• Kumite Applications: Count aloud while performing controlled sparring (kumite) drills to develop awareness and rhythm.

Practicing with a partner helps reinforce your learning while making it more dynamic.

By incorporating Japanese counting into your daily training, it becomes second nature, improving both your technique and your understanding of karate’s cultural roots.

Counting in Japanese may seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role in karate training. It helps with coordination, discipline, and mental focus while also honoring the art’s traditional origins. 

The more you practice, the more natural it will become—so keep counting, keep training, and enjoy the journey!

Ichi, Ni, San… Hajime! (One, two, three… Let’s begin!)

Q: What is the main method to count from 1 to 10 in Japanese?

A: The main method to count from 1 to 10 in Japanese involves using the native Japanese words, which are: 1 – 一 (ichi), 2 – 二 (ni), 3 – 三 (san), 4 – 四 (shi), 5 – 五 (go), 6 – 六 (roku), 7 – 七 (shichi), 8 – 八 (hachi), 9 – 九 (kyuu), and 10 – 十 (juu).

Q: Can I find a video that demonstrates how to count to ten in Japanese?

A: Yes, you can find various videos on YouTube that provide a visual and auditory description of how to count to ten in Japanese, which is especially useful for martial arts practitioners.

Q: What is a good tip for remembering the Japanese words for numbers?

A: A good tip is to create associations or examples for each number that relate to martial arts movements or techniques, which can help commit the words to memory.

Q: Are there any alternate methods to learn counting in Japanese?

A: Absolutely! In addition to the traditional method, you can use visual aids or games that incorporate counting exercises to enhance your learning experience.

Q: Why is it important for karate practitioners to learn how to count in Japanese?

A: Learning to count in Japanese is important for karate practitioners as it helps in understanding commands during training sessions and participating in traditional Japanese martial arts effectively.