Cultural Grant Assistance for the Promotion of Sports (Judo)

May 29, 2009
Japanese

In order to contribute to the spread and promotion of sports, particularly the traditional Japanese martial art of judo, the Government of Japan has decided to provide a total of approximately 250 million Japanese yen in Cultural Grant Assistance to six countries: the Gabonese Republic, the Republic of South Africa, the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, the Republic of Guatemala, the Republic of Nicaragua, and the Republic of Peru.
Sports are encouraged in many countries to promote mental and physical health in the young people who will lead the next generation. Japanese martial arts, especially the Olympic sport of judo, cultivate courtesy and discipline and are adored by people all over the world.
However, judo federations and other organizations in a number of countries have strict budgets and are unable to provide sufficient tatami mats for their practice areas. Practice is carried out in unsafe environments using worn-out tatami mats or polyurethane mats. Under these circumstances, the above-mentioned six countries have requested that the Government of Japan extend Cultural Grant Assistance to provide the funds necessary to procure tatami mats and other items for judo.
Through this assistance, which provides approximately 4,200 judo tatami mats, 2,700 judo uniforms, and other items, almost 20,000 people in six countries will be able to practice judo in a more proper environment. This assistance will also provide an opportunity to promote exchange between people through judo, as well as to spread the traditional Japanese martial art of judo and share the appeal of Japan’s unique culture and spirit. It is also hoped that it will promote interest in and understanding of Japan.

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