Martial arts even in the modern world continues to fascinate people from all over the globe. Sometimes, the more history and tradition is behind the practice, the more tourists and enthusiasts are eager to learn.
In Asia, the most prominent places to visit to learn traditional martial arts is in South Korea, Japan, and the Philippines where the art of Taekwondo, Judo, and Arnis take center stage annually in various major events organized by the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), International Judo Federation (IJF), and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC). Throughout the year, thousands of enthusiasts flock to different local and international venues to watch competitions such as World Championships, World Cups, Grand Prix, and National Championships.
Taekwondo is one of the oldest forms of martial arts that originated in Korea. It made its Olympic debut at the 2000 Sydney Games. In South Korea, enthusiasts and practitioners can visit the Namsahgol Hanok Village or the International Kumgang Taekwondo Center in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul to learn and experience a deeper sense of appreciation for Taekwondo. Characterized by diverse kicking techniques – from jumping and spinning kicks, to head-height kicks, this form of martial arts helps enhance flexibility and improve coordination.
Judo, meaning “the gentle way,” was developed in Japan in 1882 and is now part of the Olympics. This form of martial art relies on flexibility and the efficient use of balance, leverage and movement in the performance of throws and other skills, rather than brute strength. Judokas, or Judo practitioners, are trained at the heart of Tokyo where the most regarded Judo institute in the whole of Japan resides, Kodokan. Established by the founder of the martial arts himself, Kano Jigoro, Kodokan is welcome to visitors from abroad who want to train every April. This is the time when the institute hosts the All Japan Judo Championships, the biggest Judo tournament in the nation. Visitors can also learn about the history and heritage of the art of Judo by visiting the facility, freely observing sessions and checking out its historical museum.
In the Philippines, Kali, Arnis or Eskrima are widely becoming popular worldwide. It is a weapons-based fighting system indigenous to the Philippines dating back to the pre-colonial Spanish era and was originally the primary form of warfare. Kali is the traditional fighting form that makes use of bladed weapons, with native Filipino warriors, indigenous tribesmen, and noblemen among its most prevalent disciples. Kali was widely taught in institutions called Bothoan together with military tactics, and traditional medicine. However, the practice was diminished when the colonial period began. In the late 1800s, the fighting system was renamed to what it is called now, Arnis, in honor of the cultural tradition it was associated with during the years of its depravation. In 2009, Republic Act No. 9850 declared Arnis as the national martial art and sport of the Philippines. Today, martial arts pilgrims can visit the different chapters of Modern Arnis Mano-Mano Filipino Martial Arts throughout Metro Manila. For a deeper experiential appreciation, a visit to the Cebu Aikido-Arnis Center in Cebu City and the Mandirigmang Kaliradman in Davao City is a must.
Aspirants, enthusiasts, or curious visitors, get ready to immerse yourselves in the world of martial arts and book your flights with Cebu Pacific. Check booking dates and visit www.cebupacificair.com today.