Overview
ChokeSports is known worldwide for authentic Japanese lettering on Isami belts and Gis. Whether you want your name, a meaningful word, or a traditional martial arts phrase, our team handles the translation and lettering with care.
This guide explains how we translate names and words into Japanese, how to choose the right script, and how our embroidery fonts work.
How We Translate Your Text
We offer translations free of charge for all custom orders.
Foreign Names → Always Katakana
Japanese does not have an alphabet for spelling foreign names. Instead, names are written using Katakana, the script used to reproduce foreign sounds.
Examples:
- Michael → マイケル
- Alex → アレックス
If your name has a unique pronunciation, please specify it in the comments.
English Words → Kanji or Katakana
Many meaningful words—virtue terms, martial arts concepts, and spirit phrases—can be translated into Kanji. If a word has no suitable Kanji representation, we will use Katakana.
Examples:
- Courage → 勇気
- Strength → 力
- Wolf (animal) → オオカミ
Initials
Japanese does not use initials. Requests like “J.P.” or “A.S.” cannot be translated using Kanji or Kana.
Choosing the Script: Kanji, Katakana, or Hiragana
Each script offers a different aesthetic and meaning.
Kanji (漢字)
- Traditional, sharp, and symbolic
- Ideal for virtues, martial arts concepts, and meaningful words
- Often embroidered vertically on belts and Gis
- Most visually traditional for martial arts gear
Katakana (カタカナ)
- Used for foreign names
- Clean, modern look
- Works well for long names or horizontal layouts
Hiragana (ひらがな)
- Soft, flowing script
- Less commonly used for martial arts
- Suitable for children’s names or stylistic choices
Embroidery Font Options
We offer multiple Japanese embroidery fonts, each with its own personality. You pick the font directly on each product page.
Important:
- All Japanese scripts (Kanji, Katakana, Hiragana) may be embroidered vertically or horizontally depending on placement.
Submitting Your Text
You have two options when personalizing your gear with Japanese embroideries:
1. Type the exact characters
Use this option if you already know the correct Japanese characters. Great for advanced students, native speakers, or anyone who has a specific wording in mind.
2. Request a translation
Just type the English word or name and select a Japanese font. We’ll translate it for you, and if your word has multiple possible meanings, our team will choose the most appropriate option.
Orientation Guidelines
Japanese characters are traditionally embroidered vertically, top to bottom, especially on belts and the left side of the Gi.
Horizontal is also available and works well for Katakana names or long words.
If you are unsure which orientation to choose, place a comment at checkout and our team will advise.
What to Include in Your Request
To avoid delays in processing:
- Write the exact English spelling of your name or word
- Include pronunciation notes if needed
- Choose the embroidery font
- Select your preferred orientation (vertical or horizontal)