Krav Maga in Japan

The Krav Maga market in Japan

Japan hosts approximately 20,000 Krav Maga practitioners spread across various federations and schools. However, the vast majority train in commercially adapted versions of the system — not the original methodology developed by Imi Lichtenfeld for the Israeli Defense Forces.

Authentic Krav Maga vs commercial versions

In Japan, you'll find many Krav Maga schools, but only a few teach the authentic lineage. The difference is critical: commercial Krav Maga has been simplified for mass marketing, modified for sport competitions, or franchised to scale revenue — losing its real combat effectiveness.

The Avikzar System, taught by Yehouda Avikzar (10th Dan, son of Eli Avikzar — Imi's first black belt in 1971), preserves the original combat-tested techniques used by the IDF.

Self-defense law in Japan

Self-defense in Japan is governed by Art. 36 Penal Code. This means any defensive action must be necessary, simultaneous to the threat, and proportional to the danger. The Avikzar System teaches techniques specifically designed to satisfy these legal requirements while maximizing your survival chances.