What Symbols Are Traditionally Considered Lucky in Japan?

Different cultures have unique symbols they consider to bring good luck and fortune. For a long time, the Japanese have believed that some charms can help change their fortune for the better, especially when someone is going through a hard time. It sounds like something a gamer can use after going through the process of spin casino login to help them increase their chances of winnings. Take a look at examples of symbols considered lucky in Japanese culture.

Lucky Cat

The Lucky or beckoning cat is one of Japan’s most popular good luck charms. It has been engraved in the culture since the Meiji era. There are different variations to the Cat tale, but the main story is that a poor priest saved the life of a rich lord simply by beckoning him with a paw. The lord thanked the man by giving him the cash to build shrines; hence, the Lucy Cat was born. Also referred to as Maneki Neko to some, the cat is often seen waving at people in office spaces and retail shops to attract money and good luck. The cat appears in various designs and patterns with different symbolism behind each kind.

Daruma Doll

Modeled after Bodhidharma, a monk accredited with the founding of Zen Buddhism. The Daruma Doll is a figurine generally round-shaped and hollow and depicted with red-colored clothes. They mostly depict the faces of a man who has a mustache and thick eyebrows. They are also tiny enough to fit into the palms of human hands and are made of ceramic or paper. The traditional Japanese doll symbolizes both good luck and perseverance. Additionally, the figurine is also believed to have a wish-granting ability. For this reason, it has become a common souvenir to give to loved ones.

Koinobori

These brightly colored carp streamers are seen floating around Japan at the end of April and the beginning of May. Koinobori are carp-shaped windsocks made by drawing carp patterns on cloth, paper, or other nonwoven fabric. They are then put to flutter in the wind and called Satsuki-nobori. It is the period when the country celebrates Children’s Day, a national holiday. At this time, as tradition, kids are supposed to show respect and thank parents, relatives, and teachers for their support throughout their lives. Some regions also make young boys crawl through the koinobori to attract good fortune.

Wooden Wish Boards

Also known as ema, the Wooden Wish Boards are another example of symbols considered lucky in Japan. Interested parties can purchase the prayer boards at shrines in the country. People then fill out the prayer boards with wishes and hopes then leave the boards hanging at the shrines so that aspirations become a reality. Both locals and tourists come from far to fill out the wish boards. Because many fill the boards, some have to be burnt to make space for new wishes.

Origami Crane

In Japanese culture, the crane is a mythical creature and is thought to have a life span of 1,000 years. Residents are fond of the crane and often call it the “bird of happiness.” It is an iconic representation of longevity and good fortune. The wings are also believed to offer protection. It is tradition and belief that if an individual folds 1000 origami cranes, all their wishes will come true. Mothers recite a traditional prayer when crafting origami when they are concerned about their children.

The history of the paper cranes, also known as orizuru, began in feudal Japan from 1185-1603 when individuals gifted each other paper figures as symbols of loyalty and honor. Origami paper sets are sold widely in Japan and made from materials like:

A thousand paper sheets
Beads
String

The art of origami cranes was officially published in the 16th century. They are commonly assembled as 40 cranes and 25 strings each. The paper bird is also a symbol of healing and hope during challenging times.

Laughing Buddha

The laughing Buddha is a significant lucky charm that brings prosperity and happiness. Many also believe they will get good luck by rubbing their belly because most people will never pass a laughing buddha without touching its belly in the temple. The deity statue also helps to enhance all kinds of positive aspirations like descendent luck, career, health, and wealth. Because of the popularity of the laughing Buddha, people have crafted it into a variety of Feng Shui products like key chains, figurines, and amulets made from different materials like crystal, metal, jade, gemstone, and porcelain.

Closing Thoughts

People in Japan have used good luck figures for ages to change how they feel or behave. This type of association is usually based on belief more than anything else. Above are examples of charms and symbols that the Japanese use to attract good fortunes.