In Japan, numbers are not just numbers, but they also have a significant meaning. Japanese people believe that certain numbers bring good luck and prosperity while some numbers are considered unlucky. Therefore, numbers play an essential role in Japanese culture, especially in daily life and traditions. In this article, we will explore some good luck numbers in Japan and what they mean.
1. Number 8
Number 8 is one of the most auspicious numbers in Japan. It is pronounced as "hachi," which sounds similar to the Japanese word for prosperity and good luck. Hence, it is believed to bring good fortune and success in business, career, and personal life. Many companies and individuals in Japan prefer phone numbers, addresses, and license plates that contain the number eight.
2. Number 7
Number 7 is also a lucky number in Japan. It is pronounced as "shichi," which sounds similar to the Japanese word for "life" and "luck." Therefore, it is believed to bring happiness, good health, and longevity. In Japanese mythology, there are seven Gods of Fortune, and the seventh day of the first month is known as "Nanakusa-no-Sekku" or the "Seven Herbs Festival," which is a celebration of good health and the coming of spring.
3. Number 2
Number 2 is considered a lucky number in Japan because it represents harmony and balance. It is pronounced as "ni," which sounds similar to the Japanese word for "love." Therefore, it is believed to bring love and happiness in relationships. In Japanese culture, couples exchange two cups of sake during their wedding ceremony, symbolizing their union and harmony.
4. Number 5
Number 5 is another lucky number in Japan. It is pronounced as "go," which sounds similar to the Japanese words for "fortune" and "luck." Therefore, it is believed to bring good luck and prosperity in business and finance. In Japanese cuisine, there are five basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami, which symbolize balance and completeness.
5. Number 9
Number 9 is considered a lucky number in Japan because it represents longevity and eternity. It is pronounced as "ku," which sounds similar to the Japanese words for "longevity" and "forever." Therefore, it is believed to bring good health and a long life. In Japanese culture, there are nine forms of Budo, which are martial arts that promote discipline, respect, and self-defense.
6. Number 4
Number 4 is considered an unlucky number in Japan because it sounds similar to the Japanese word for "death." Therefore, it is associated with bad luck and is considered taboo in many situations. In Japanese hospitals, there are no rooms with the number four, and many elevators skip the fourth floor. However, in some cases, number 4 is used as a lucky number, for example, in the sport of golf, where it is considered a good score.
7. Number 6
Number 6 is considered an unlucky number in Japan because it sounds similar to the Japanese word for "suffering" and "pain." Therefore, it is associated with bad luck and is avoided in many situations. In Japanese culture, there are six unlucky days called "rokuyo," which are believed to bring bad luck if you start a new project or travel on those days.
8. Conclusion
In conclusion, numbers play an essential role in Japanese culture, and some numbers are believed to bring good luck and prosperity, while some numbers are considered unlucky. Understanding the meaning of numbers in Japan can help you navigate the culture and avoid any taboos or misunderstandings. Therefore, if you are planning to visit Japan or do business with Japanese people, it is essential to keep in mind the significance of numbers in their culture.