Japan seen through its proverbs : The language of Japanese wisdom

Through a few simple words, Japanese proverbs, or kotowaza (諺), condense centuries of popular wisdom. Present in the language for generations, they are used to illustrate an idea, offer advice, or highlight a universal truth. But in Japan, these expressions take on a unique dimension: they are imbued with restraint, nature, observation, and silence, in harmony with the deep values of Japanese society.

In a country where communication is often indirect, proverbs allow for conveying a message smoothly and elegantly. They are both a language tool, a moral teaching, and a reflection of a culture where emotion is not always expressed directly. Exploring kotowaza is to dive into a universe made of metaphors, sensations, gentle wisdom, and respect for the unsaid.

The origins and role of kotowaza in Japanese society

Before discovering the meaning of certain proverbs, it is essential to understand their place in the history and daily life of Japan.

A tradition that came from China but was reinterpreted in Japan

The first Japanese proverbs are derived from the Chinese tradition, particularly from classical Confucian texts. Introduced as early as the Nara period (8th century), these aphorisms were quickly adopted, adapted, and integrated into Japanese culture. Where Chinese proverbs retain a moral rigidity, the Japanese versions have evolved into a poetry of everyday life, often linked to nature, seasons, or social behaviors.

Some kotowaza maintain a classic structure, while others are rooted in rural life, ancient trades, or observations of the living world. This blend of influences gives rise to a rich, varied, and deeply Japanese proverbial language that values nuance over certainty.

A discreet and respectful language in social relations

In a society where consensus and politeness prevail, proverbs play a key role. They allow for criticism, advice, or warnings to be conveyed without causing offense. Using a kotowaza in a discussion shows tact, culture, and elegance. One does not say "you are making a mistake," but rather cites a proverb that suggests caution.

言わぬが花 (Iwanu ga hana)
"What is not said is a flower."
➤ This means that sometimes, silence is more beautiful, more appropriate than words. It expresses all the subtlety of the unspoken in Japanese culture.

Proverbs are also used in media, manga, political speeches, or advertising slogans. They serve to reinforce a message through the authority of ancient wisdom, while making the statement more accessible.

The major themes of Japanese proverbs

Kotowaza explore all aspects of life: work, perseverance, human relationships, nature, time, destiny. Here are the most recurring themes, with some significant examples.

Patience and endurance in the face of trials

Japanese culture values perseverance, the ability to endure without complaining, to continue despite obstacles. Many proverbs remind us of the importance of never giving up, even when success seems distant.

七転び八起き (Nanakorobi yaoki)
"Fall seven times, stand up eight."
➤ One of the most famous Japanese proverbs. It embodies the spirit of resilience and quiet courage that runs through the entire Japanese culture.

These expressions emphasize that success does not come from brilliance, but from consistency, silence, and repeated effort.

Humility and discretion

Japan values modesty, both in appearance and behavior. Many proverbs warn against pride and remind that true strength is often invisible.

実るほど頭を垂れる稲穂かな (Minoru hodo kashiko o tareru inaho kana)
“The more the rice ripens, the more it bows its head.”
➤ The more accomplished a person is, the more humble they will be. A lesson in simplicity and elegance.

This proverb is often used in schools or businesses to encourage modesty, listening, and restraint.

Nature as a mirror of human behavior

Japanese thought is deeply connected to nature. Proverbs draw their symbolism from the changing of the seasons, animals, the elements. This organic view of the world allows for translating human concepts through simple yet evocative images.

猿も木から落ちる (Saru mo ki kara ochiru)
“Even the monkey falls from the tree.”
➤ Even experts make mistakes. A call for humility and understanding of others' faults.

Each proverb becomes a gentle life lesson, in line with the wabi-sabi philosophy, which celebrates imperfection and impermanence.

Caution, reflection, and calm

Japanese society values self-control. Many kotowaza encourage not to rush, to think before acting, and to listen before speaking.

急がば回れ (Isogaba maware)
“If you are in a hurry, take the detour.”
➤ Taking your time is sometimes the fastest way. A valuable wisdom in a world obsessed with the instant.

This type of proverb is still used in schools, families, or at work to encourage patience and long-term strategy.

A wisdom still very much alive today

One might think that in an ultra-connected Japan, these proverbs would have disappeared. This is not the case. Kotowaza are still taught, used, appreciated.

They appear in mangas and animes, often at key moments, to highlight a moral or a state of mind. They are cited in school textbooks, in seasonal weather reports, in the bulletins of temples or Shinto shrines. Companies use them in their internal charters, and many families continue to pass them down as moral compasses for everyday life.

The return to slower, more rooted, more human values gives new strength to these ancient words today. Through them, it is an entire Japanese way of life that endures, discreet but profound.

Japanese proverbs are like stones polished by the centuries: small, but full of meaning. They convey the essential without overdoing it. They reflect a culture of respect, observation, temperance, and quiet wisdom. By discovering them, one does not just understand a language, one approaches a way of thinking, a way of being in the world.

And while these little phrases may seem simple, they contain a richness that awaits meditation. For as another proverb says:

習うより慣れろ (Narau yori narero)
“Better to get used to it than to learn it.”
➤ To truly understand, one must live the experience. Perhaps like Japan itself.