There are three kanji used to write bushido.
  • Bu - Martial arts
  • Shi - Gentleman/Nobleman
  • Do - The way or path

Bushido is then the path that is followed by a gentleman or nobleman practitioner of martial arts. Often simply described as "The way of the warrior" or "The way of the samurai".

There are seven virtues of bushido:

  1. Gi: rectitude
  2. Rei: courtesy, respect
  3. Yu: valor
  4. Chugi: Devotion, loyalty
  5. Makato: honesty
  6. Meiyo: honor and glory
  7. Jin: benevolence