道
Road, Way, Path
みち (michi)
JLPT N5
Interesting Fact
In Japan, the kanji 道 means more than a road. It's also used for lifelong disciplines such as Judo ("the gentle way"), Kendo ("the way of the sword"), and Bushidō ("the way of warrior"). The idea is simple: mastery isn't a destination—it's a path you continue walking.
Memory Trick
A giant head is moving down the street on back of snail.
Readings
Onyomi: ドウ (dou), トウ (tou)
Kunyomi: みち (michi)
Example Words
道
みち (michi)
Road
歩道
ほどう (hodou)
Sidewalk
道具
どうぐ (dougu)
Tool
北海道
ほっかいどう (hokkaidou)
Hokkaido
Example Sentence
この道をまっすぐ行ってください。
この みち を まっすぐ いって ください。
kono michi o massugu itte kudasai
Please go straight along this road.