Keiko Fukuda, Japanese-American martial artist and trainer (b. 1913)

Keiko Fukuda (福田 敬子; April 12, 1913 – February 9, 2013) was an extraordinary Japanese American martial artist whose profound dedication and trailblazing spirit redefined the landscape of judo. Born in Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan, Fukuda Sensei stands as the highest-ranked female judoka in history, a testament to her lifelong mastery and unwavering commitment to the art. She held the unprecedented ranks of 9th dan from the prestigious Kodokan in 2006, and the ultimate 10th dan from both USA Judo in July 2011 and the United States Judo Federation (USJF) in September 2011. Her legacy is further solidified by being the last surviving direct student of Jigoro Kano, the revered founder of judo, connecting her directly to the art's foundational principles and vision.

Fukuda's connection to judo was deeply rooted in her family heritage. Her grandfather, Hachinosuke Fukuda, was a renowned master of Tenjin Shin'yo-ryu jujutsu, a classical martial art that profoundly influenced Jigoro Kano's development of judo. This familial link led to a pivotal moment in her life when, as a young woman, she was personally invited by Kano Shihan to train at the Kodokan, the global headquarters of judo. This invitation was exceptional, especially at a time when opportunities for women in martial arts were extremely limited and often confined to separate, less prominent sections of the dojo. Defying societal expectations and traditional norms that typically steered women towards marriage and domestic life, Fukuda chose to dedicate her life to judo. This courageous decision, made during a period of significant gender disparity, underscored her revolutionary spirit and singular focus on martial arts excellence.

Keiko Fukuda was not merely a participant in judo; she was a transformative pioneer who tirelessly championed the advancement of women in the sport. Alongside her esteemed senpai, Masako Noritomi (1913–1982), Fukuda Sensei broke significant barriers. In approximately 1972, they made history together as the first women to be promoted to 6th dan, a remarkable achievement that shattered gender ceilings within the judo hierarchy. During this era, women's judo was often relegated to secondary status, facing systemic hurdles and a lack of recognition compared to men's judo. Fukuda's persistent efforts, both on and off the mat, helped to challenge these biases, demonstrating unequivocally that women were equally capable of achieving profound mastery and contributing significantly to the art.

After completing her comprehensive formal education in Japan, Keiko Fukuda embarked on a new chapter, venturing to the United States of America. She began her teaching career in the 1950s and 1960s, initially visiting to share her profound knowledge of judo. Her expertise and dedication quickly established her reputation, leading her to eventually settle permanently in the US. In 1973, she founded the Soko Joshi Judo Club in the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area, creating a dedicated space for women to learn and excel in judo. This dojo became a beacon for aspiring female judoka, providing a nurturing yet challenging environment under her direct tutelage. Fukuda Sensei remained a steadfast fixture in the Bay Area judo community, continuing to inspire and teach her unique blend of strength, gentleness, and grace until her passing in 2013.

The culmination of Keiko Fukuda's unparalleled career was marked by her historic ascent through the judo dan ranks. In 2006, the Kodokan, the traditional authority of judo, bestowed upon her the rank of 9th dan, acknowledging her exceptional technical skill and lifelong contributions. However, her most profound achievement came in 2011, when she became the first and, to date, only woman in the art of judo to be promoted to 10th dan. This ultimate rank was awarded by both USA Judo in July 2011 and the United States Judo Federation (USJF) in September 2011. The 10th dan is extraordinarily rare, typically reserved for individuals who have not only demonstrated unparalleled technical mastery but have also profoundly impacted the global development, philosophy, and spirit of judo over a lifetime. Fukuda Sensei's promotion was a monumental recognition of her singular dedication, pioneering efforts for women in judo, and her direct lineage to the founder, Jigoro Kano, making her an unparalleled figure in the history of martial arts.

Beyond her technical prowess and pioneering achievements, Keiko Fukuda imparted a distinct philosophy that resonated with her students and the wider judo community. She encouraged a holistic approach to judo, famously encapsulating it with the principle "Be strong, be soft, be graceful." This motto emphasized not just physical strength, but also mental resilience (strong), adaptability and empathy (soft), and aesthetic beauty in movement and character (graceful). Her teachings extended beyond the physical techniques, advocating for judo as a path to personal growth and self-improvement. Fukuda Sensei authored "Born for the Mat: A Kodokan Kata Textbook for Women," a seminal work that further solidified her commitment to the development of women's judo, particularly in the understanding and execution of kata. Her enduring legacy continues to inspire countless judoka worldwide, demonstrating that dedication, perseverance, and a pioneering spirit can break down any barrier, paving the way for future generations of women in martial arts.

Frequently Asked Questions about Keiko Fukuda

• Who was Keiko Fukuda?

  Keiko Fukuda was a legendary Japanese American martial artist, renowned as the highest-ranked female judoka in history and the last surviving direct student of judo's founder, Jigoro Kano. She was a pivotal figure in advancing women's participation and recognition in judo.

• What were Keiko Fukuda's highest judo ranks?

  Keiko Fukuda achieved the 9th dan from the Kodokan in 2006 and, notably, became the first and only woman to be promoted to the 10th dan by both USA Judo (2011) and the United States Judo Federation (2011). The 10th dan is the highest attainable rank in judo, signifying unparalleled mastery and profound global impact.

• Why is Keiko Fukuda considered a pioneer for women in judo?

  Fukuda Sensei defied societal norms by dedicating her life to judo, a path rarely chosen by women in her era. She, along with Masako Noritomi, was among the first women to reach the 6th dan. She established the Soko Joshi Judo Club for women in the US and advocated tirelessly for equitable opportunities and recognition for female judoka, breaking numerous gender barriers throughout her career.

• What was Keiko Fukuda's connection to Jigoro Kano?

  Keiko Fukuda had a unique and direct connection to Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo. She was personally invited by Kano Shihan to train at the Kodokan, making her his last surviving direct student. This lineage provided her with an unparalleled understanding of judo's foundational principles and philosophical depth.

• Where did Keiko Fukuda teach judo?

  After moving to the United States, Keiko Fukuda taught judo primarily in the San Francisco Bay Area. In 1973, she established the Soko Joshi Judo Club, where she continued to teach and mentor countless students until her passing in 2013.