Born: 1913 (Tokyo, Japan)
Died: 2013
Keiko Fukuda (Japanese: 福田 敬子, Hepburn: Fukuda Keiko, April 12, 1913 – February 9, 2013) was a Japanese-American martial artist who left an indelible mark on the world of judo. As the highest-ranked female judoka in history and the last surviving student of judo’s founder, Kanō Jigorō, Fukuda was a renowned pioneer of women’s judo and an influential figure both in Japan and the United States.
Born on April 12, 1913, in Tokyo, Fukuda grew up in a traditional household. Her father passed away when she was young, leaving her to be raised by her mother. Despite the societal expectations placed upon her as a woman in Japan at the time, Fukuda developed a deep connection to the art of judo through her grandfather, Fukuda Hachinosuke, who had been a samurai and a master of Tenjin Shinyō-ryū jujutsu. Fukuda’s grandfather had taught jujutsu to Kanō Jigorō, who eventually founded judo. Inspired by the legacy of her grandfather and the teachings of Kanō, Fukuda decided to pursue a career in judo.
In 1935, Fukuda joined the Kodokan, the headquarters of judo, as one of only 24 female practitioners at the time. This was a significant achievement considering the limited opportunities available to women in the male-dominated world of martial arts. Under the guidance of Kanō and renowned judoka Kyuzo Mifune, Fukuda honed her skills and quickly excelled in the sport. Standing at only 4′ 11 (150 cm) and weighing less than 100 lb. (45 kg), she defied expectations and showcased remarkable technique, earning her promotion to become a judo instructor in 1937. Fukuda’s dedication to judo was unwavering, as she continued her journey in the sport while also earning a degree in Japanese literature from Showa Women’s University.
Fukuda’s talents and achievements in judo did not go unnoticed. In 2006, the Kodokan promoted her to the prestigious rank of 9th dan, the highest rank achieved by a female judoka at that time. However, her journey didn’t end there. In July 2011, both USA Judo and the United States Judo Federation (USJF) awarded her the rank of 10th dan, making her the first and, so far, the only woman to hold this honor in the art of judo. This accolade was a testament not only to Fukuda’s exceptional skill but also to the significant contributions she made to the advancement of women in the sport.
Beyond her personal accomplishments, Fukuda played a crucial role in promoting judo as a pathway for women’s empowerment. In 1926, Kanō had established the joshi-bu (women’s section) at the Kodokan, and Fukuda’s invitation to study directly under him was a symbol of respect for her grandfather’s legacy. By participating in judo at a time when women’s involvement in martial arts was rare, Fukuda defied societal norms and paved the way for future generations of female judoka.
After completing her formal education in Japan, Fukuda embarked on a journey that would take her to the United States, where she dedicated her life to teaching judo. In the 1950s and 1960s, she traveled to the United States to share her knowledge and skills with eager students. Eventually, Fukuda settled in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she continued to teach and inspire students until her passing in 2013. Her teachings transcended mere physical techniques, as she instilled a philosophy of discipline, perseverance, and respect in all aspects of life.
Keiko Fukuda’s legacy extends far beyond her numerous achievements and accolades. Her strength, determination, and unwavering passion for judo broke barriers and shattered expectations, propelling women’s judo to new heights. Fukuda’s dedication to her art and her commitment to empowerment serve as an inspiration to women all over the world. Through her teachings and her remarkable journey, she has forever secured her place in women’s history and the annals of martial arts.
Awards:
– 9th dan from the Kodokan (2006)
– 10th dan from USA Judo (July 2011)
– 10th dan from the United States Judo Federation (USJF) (September 2011)