Master Funakoshi defined five important principles about achieving Karate-do, about living an honorable life. Each student must learn the essence of the Dojokun. These principles are repeated in unison at the end of each class session. They are:

Seek Perfection of Character
Hitotsu! Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomuru koto!
(One thing: To strive for the perfection of character)

Be Faithful
Hitotsu! Makoto no michi o mamoru koto!
(One thing: To keep up the paths leading to the truth)

Endeavor
Hitotsu! Doryoku no seishin o yashinau koto!
(One thing: To achieve strength of will)

Respect Others
Hitotsu! Reigo o omonzuru koto!
(One thing: To set a high value on decorum)

Refrain from Violent Behavior
Hitotsu! Kekki no yu o imashimuru koto!
(One thing: To avoid hot-headed, uncontrolled courage)