The suffix “do” (the road) is attached to many traditional Japanese disciplines, such as judo, and sado. It is essential in these for learners not only to improve their skills, but also to develop the spiritual side that underpins these disciplines. Seen from a traditional perspective, you could say that Japanese language learning is also a Japanese discipline. The words Japanese people produce, reflect their feelings and way of thinking. For instance, “Okagesama de” (thanks to you) is a phrase often used in everyday life. During winners’ interviews at the Olympics or other major sporting events, most Japanese athletes would first say, “This result is due to all the people who have supported me up till now.” Swimmer MATSUDA Takeshi came up with a remark that lodged itself in the hearts of the Japanese at the 2012 London Olympics. Matsuda was a member of the team for the 4 x 100 medley relay race that KITAJIMA Kosuke also joined. Kitajima was a superstar who won a total of four gold medals in breaststroke events at the Athens and Beijing Olympics. However, he was not in good shape in the London Olympics and this was his final race. People thought this would also be his last race in his career. Matsuda said to the relay members: “We cannot make Kosuke return to Japan without a souvenir (medal).” This remark is representative of the Japanese mindset. After this, every member did their best, winning silver. These words are the product of the Japanese ethos, which is to always be mindful of one’s debt to others. You could define “Nihongodo as acquiring Japanese spirit and its culture.”