7 Amazing Japanese Quotes About Life​

When it comes to naming the countries that are rich in wisdom, perseverance, and resilience, then not including Japan would be a glaring oversight. Because Japan isn’t just famous for its continuous growth and development, but also for the culture that is deeply ingrained in values such as harmony, mutual respect and togetherness, which have shaped its identity and resilience through the ages. 

There are Japanese quotes about life, death, and wisdom that have been passed down from generation to generation, providing a sense of hope and direction to people. Let’s take a look at some of the inspirational Japanese quotes that encourage us to embrace life head on.

1) keizoku wa chikara nari (“Continuance is power”)

This quote lays emphasis on the power of persistence and consistency. No matter at what point you are in your life, if you’re consistent in what you do, you will sooner or later reach your final destination. Setbacks are part of our lives, so instead of running from them, we should embrace them head on, and be relentless in our pursuits.

2) Nanakorobi yaoki (“Fall seven times, stand up eight”)

This quote is all about standing your ground when life doesn’t give you what you’re meant for. It’s about showing courage when you have no courage left inside you. Showing resilience and conviction when life’s got only pain to offer you. Indeed, this is one of the best Japanese quotes about life and holds an incredible potential to push your limits. Miyamoto Musashi once said “You can only fight the way you practice”. So, practice as hard as you can, as the more you practice, the more you become master at it, and will become resilient in the face of hardships.

3) Shoshin wasuru bekarazu (“Do not forget your beginner’s mind”)

Remember when you were just a child, you didn’t know how to walk. You weren’t aware of the world’s norms and beliefs, and were curious to explore and touch everything around you. So, this quote is all about that. About not losing a sense of where you come from, and never ending curiosity.

No matter how wise and experienced you become in your life. Always try to see the world from a beginner’s mind and cherish life from a new angle. Your life is not guaranteed, so there is no pride in being boastful of your luxurious life and knowledge. You can only pass it to the new generation. So do it while knowing there’s always a beginning after an end.

4) Kafuku wa arau nawa no gotoshi (“Fortune and misfortune are intertwined like a twisted rope”)

There will be days in our lives when everything around us seems to fall apart, and there will be days when life won’t stop showering abundant happiness. This Japanese quote about life reminds us to remain humble when good fortune comes and exercise patience when life challenges our limits.

5) Asu ga arusa (“There is always tomorrow”)

Remember that there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel. There’s always dawn after the night. So, don’t remain stuck in your head. The problems you’ve today, they won’t be tomorrow. Because time is relative, it keeps on changing. So, stop bothering yourself with today’s problems. They won’t remain the same. They shall too pass. So, stay hopeful and optimistic. Because, there is an opportunity waiting for you tomorrow. 

6) Koto no owari wa hajimari no hajimari (“The end of one thing is the beginning of another”)

Another inspirational Japanese quote that will force you to think about life more deeply is that, “you have to let go of one thing in order to embrace another. Whether it is a relationship, carrier, habits and beyond that. You must let them go to begin something new. Remember that, a new journey begins at the end of your comfort zone. You must destroy your past self in order to create a new self. In fact, that’s how the universe works. So, don’t run away from what is required to be done. Do it, and let the future unfold what you’re destined for.

Read more: Ikigai Meaning

7)  Aho ni toriau baka (“Only fools engage with fools”)

An individual who lacks wisdom and self-respect can lead to unnecessary conflict and frustration. Therefore, it is always wise to choose your environment and the people around you carefully. They hold the power to turn your whole life upside down and reshape your identity. You probably don’t want to lose yourself among foolish people, right? So, choose your circle wisely. Choose people who choose you, who recognize your self-worth, and who love you unconditionally.