Karate's Olympic debut ignites interest in Japan's martial arts

'Budo' traditions set to be catapulted onto world stage at Summer Games

20200305 karate Senegal

Karate is gaining popularity around the world in countries such as Senegal, where local karate trainees are seen practicing in December. © Reuters

DAISHI CHIBA, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- The Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics have been generating a wave of international interest in Japanese budo traditional martial arts, which are often said to encapsulate the nation's values and spirituality.

The 2020 Games, now cast in uncertainty due to the coronavirus pandemic, have put the spotlight especially on karate, which will make its Olympic debut this year.

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