In our lives, we often encounter moments of uncertainty or adversity. During such times, having a guiding principle—a personal creed or motto—can offer much-needed support. Japan has a long history of beautiful words and phrases, each carrying profound lessons on living a meaningful and fulfilling life.
In this article, we have carefully curated 100 inspiring Japanese words that can serve as excellent mottos, along with detailed explanations of their meanings and cultural backgrounds. We hope you will find words here that resonate with you and provide guidance in your daily life, work, and personal development. Let these expressions be a source of inspiration and strength whenever you need them.
100 Inspiring Japanese Words
- 和敬清寂 (Wa-kei-sei-jaku)
Originating from the spirit of Zen, this phrase teaches the importance of mutual respect, harmony, and a calm, pure heart. - 温故知新 (Onko-chishin)
“Examining the old to understand the new”—it encourages learning from history and past wisdom to spark fresh insights. - 花鳥風月 (Kachōfūgetsu)
Symbolizes the richness of appreciating nature’s beauty, the changing seasons, and the harmony found in the natural world. - 明鏡止水 (Meikyō-shisui)
Conveys the value of keeping a mind as clear and calm as a polished mirror reflecting still water. - 柔よく剛を制す (Jū yoku gō o seisu)
“Gentleness can overcome hardness”—highlights the wisdom in using flexibility over rigid force. - 一日一善 (Ichi-nichi-ichi-zen)
Encourages performing at least one good deed a day, contributing to personal growth and the betterment of society. - 初心忘るべからず (Shoshin wasuru bekarazu)
Urges us to never forget the pure passion and enthusiasm we had when we first started something. - 謙虚 (Kenkyō)
Emphasizes humility—by remaining modest and respecting others, we foster true growth. - 不言実行 (Fugen-jikkō)
Stresses the importance of taking action rather than just talking about one’s intentions. - 一期一会 (Ichigo-ichie)
Reminds us that every encounter is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, urging us to treasure each moment. - 臥薪嘗胆 (Gashin-shōtan)
Signifies enduring hardship and making relentless efforts in pursuit of future success. - 心頭滅却すれば火もまた涼し (Shintō-mekkyaku sureba hi mo mata suzushi)
A Zen teaching suggesting that, by calming the mind, even the greatest challenges can feel manageable. - 以心伝心 (Ishin-denshin)
Reflects the mysterious notion of heart-to-heart communication, often without words. - 行雲流水 (Kōun-ryūsui)
Portrays a free-flowing, natural way of life—drifting like clouds and flowing like water. - 石の上にも三年 (Ishi no ue ni mo san-nen)
Teaches that with perseverance, we can overcome any situation, just like sitting on a cold stone for three years. - 有言実行 (Yūgen-jikkō)
Contrasts with “Fugen-jikkō,” emphasizing that if you do speak of your intentions, you must follow through with them. - 諸行無常 (Shogyō-mujō)
A fundamental Buddhist concept that everything is in constant flux and nothing lasts forever. - 無我夢中 (Muga-muchū)
Describes being so absorbed in something that you lose track of time and self-awareness. - 自業自得 (Jigō-jitoku)
Reminds us that our actions have consequences; what we do returns to us eventually. - 感謝 (Kansha)
Highlights the importance of gratitude in daily life, recognizing blessings from people and events around us. - 自然体 (Shizentai)
Suggests living without pretense—valuing authenticity and respecting one’s natural pace. - 和魂洋才 (Wakon-yōsai)
“Japanese spirit, Western knowledge”—encourages blending traditional Japanese values with global ideas. - 心機一転 (Shinki-itten)
Calls for a fresh mindset, urging us to renew our motivation and approach. - 信念 (Shinnen)
Encourages holding firmly to one’s beliefs and principles, no matter the circumstances. - 忍耐 (Nintai)
Reminds us that enduring hardship can lead to eventual success and personal development. - 誠心誠意 (Seishin-seii)
Acting with sincerity and genuine effort garners trust and respect. - 堅忍不抜 (Kennin-fubatsu)
Signifies unwavering determination, even in the face of great adversity. - 風雅 (Fūga)
Conveys an elegant, refined sense of beauty, often associated with traditional Japanese aesthetics. - 日々精進 (Hibi-shōjin)
Emphasizes the power of continuous, steady effort leading to growth and achievement. - 静中有動 (Seichū-udō)
Suggests that within quietness lies hidden energy and untapped potential.
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