Japanese Proverbs

“A flower doesn’t speak.”

Japan is famous for the beauty of its culture and the modest grace of its people. In this collection of nearly 700 traditional proverbs, the very best of Japanese wisdom is on display, offering poignant, shrewd, and timeless insights into the human condition. Each proverb is provided in its original language, with hiragana, rōmaji, and English translations to unpack the wording and interpretations as faithfully as possible. From love and fate to gender and spirituality, these age-old sayings cover every topic we face in life, with a humble, stoical, and nature-centered wit. For anyone with an interest in Japan, don’t miss out on this window into the cultural thoughts of its people, from ancient times to the present.