In a world often overwhelmed by clutter and chaos, may the timeless wisdom of these Japanese proverbs gently guide us back toward simplicity and order.

Japanese culture has long embrace the beauty of minimalism — a lifestyle characterised by cleanliness, orderliness, and freedom from clutter and unnecessary excess. Yet, keeping these qualities of mindful living has become increasingly difficult in our today’s fast-paced world.

Japanese proverbs offer profound insights that can inspire us to reconnect with minimalism as they often emphasise the importance of simplicity, balance, and harmony in life. By reflecting on these proverbs, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the beauty of simplicity and the benefits of living with less.

Insights into Japanese Proverbs and Culture

A Japanese proverb, also known as kotowaza (諺), is a short, traditional saying that expresses a general truth, piece of wisdom, or moral lesson. These proverbs cover various topics and aspects of life, including relationships, work ethics, or nature. They are usually passed down through generations and offer insight into Japanese culture, values, and beliefs.

Kotowaza use language tricks like metaphor, simile, and personification to be memorable. Some have roots in historical events, famous figures, or classic stories, revealing Japan’s rich cultural history. Kotowaza are commonly use in language learning as they often capture unique ideas that don’t translate directly. Different regions in Japan have their own versions that reflect local traditions and dialects. Kotowaza are still widely used in everyday conversation in Japan and you may even find them in books, TV shows, movies, and songs.

20 Japanese Proverbs to Inspire a Clean, Tidy, and Minimalist Lifestyle

1. A departing bird leaves no trace of its passage.

立つ鳥跡を濁さず
Tatsu tori ato wo nigosazu

Meaning: Anyone leaving a location should not cause disturbance or leave behind an unsightly mess. Be considerate and respectful when exiting a space, so that our presences do not negatively impact others or create disorder.

2. Even specks of dust, when piled up, become a mountain.

ちりもつもればやまとなる
Chiri mo tsumoreba yama to naru

Meaning: Small things should not be underestimated, as they can accumulate and become significant if not dealt with. It can also mean that every small effort contributes to achieving larger results over time.

3. A horse that doesn’t clean up inside will shake its hair outside.

内で掃除せぬ馬は外で毛を振る
Uchi de souji senu uma wa soto de ke wo furu

Meaning: If one doesn’t clean up after oneself inside (at home or in personal spaces), one will face consequences or create messes elsewhere.

4. One’s residence affects one’s mood.

居は気を移す
Kyo wa ki o utsusu

Meaning: Where you live and the environment around you can greatly affect how you feel. The place where you spend your time can strongly influence your mood and overall well-being.

5. Birds return to their old nests.

鳥は古巣に帰る
Tori wa furusu ni kaeru

Meaning: Just as a bird finds comfort and familiarity in its old nest, one may find contentment in a living space that feels like home. This sentiment is similar to the saying “there’s no place like home”.

6. Dumplings over flowers.

花より団子
Hana yori dango

Meaning: Prioritise substance over superficial things. Value things that offer tangible benefits or fulfil basic needs rather than focusing on mere aesthetics.

7. One opportunity, one encounter.

一期一会 
Ichi-go ichi-e

Meaning: Cherish each moment and recognise the uniqueness of every encounter. Be fully engaged in the present moment as each experience is considered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

8. One who chases after two hares will catch neither.

二兎を追う者は一兎をも得ず
Nito o oumono wa itto o mo ezu

Meaning: Chasing after multiple tasks or desires simultaneously can lead to a lack of focus and ultimately prevent one from achieving any of them. Prioritise on what truly matters to avoid distractions.

9. Tomorrow’s wind will blow tomorrow.

明日は明日の風が吹く
Ashita wa ashita no kaze ga fuku

Meaning: Each day brings its own challenges and opportunities. Live in the present moment and focus on what is within our control rather than worrying excessively about the future.

10. One’s own actions, one’s own rewards.

自業自得
Jigou jitoku

Meaning: One’s actions bring about their own rewards or consequences. Our choices determine the quality of our lives. This sentiment is similar to the saying “you reap what you sow”.

11. A red lacquer dish needs no decoration.

丹漆飾らず
Tan shitsu kazarazu

Meaning: Something that is beautiful from the beginning does not need to be decorated. Keep things simple and avoid unnecessary embellishment or excess. This sentiment is similar to the saying “less is more”.

12. Crabs dig holes according to the size of their shells.

蟹は甲羅に似せて穴を掘る
Kani wa kora ni nisete ana o horu

Meaning: One creates a living space or lifestyle to reflect one’s values and preferences. One should arrange their surroundings to align with their desired aesthetic or functional needs.

13. There is nothing more costly than what’s free.

ただより高いものはない
Tada yori takai mono wa nai

Meaning: Getting things for free might seem beneficial at first, but it often leads to hidden costs like maintenance, clutter, or stress. This sentiment is similar to the saying “no such thing as a free lunch”.

14. The moon, snow, and flowers cannot all be viewed at the same time.

月雪花は一度に眺められぬ
Tsuki yuki hana wa ichido ni nagamerarenu

Meaning: To everything there is a season. Savour the present moment and fully immerse on one thing at a time instead of trying to experience everything simultaneously. Appreciate the beauty of each moment as it unfolds.

15. A meal of rice under the evening moon.

月夜比米の飯
Tsuki-yo ni kome no meshi

Meaning: Finding joy in simple things in life. Appreciate simplicity and find contentment in basic, natural pleasures, such as a modest meal of rice under the moonlight.

16. Even a rotting rope serves a purpose.

腐れ縄も役に立つ
Kusare-nawa mo yaku ni tatsu

Meaning: Even old or worn-out items can still be useful. Instead of immediately throwing away something because it appears worthless, one should consider whether it can still serve a useful function to minimise waste.

17. You can’t eat a picture of a rice cake.

絵に描いた餅は食えぬ
E ni kaita mochi wa kuenu

Meaning: Never confuse art with life. Taking action, engaging fully with reality, and experiencing life authentically rather than merely fantasising or getting lost in idealised visions.

18. What becomes good does not necessarily become beautiful.

善なるもの必ず美ならず
Zen naru mono kanarazu bi narazu

Meaning: Not all good things are necessarily appealing or attractive. Look beyond appearances and value the substance or meaning behind things rather than being solely focused on surface-level beauty.

19. Too many accomplishments make no accomplishment.

多芸は無芸
Tagei wa mugei

Meaning: Trying to excel in numerous areas can result in a lack of true expertise in any one field. It’s better to invest time and energy in pursuits that align with our values, rather than chasing superficial achievements in multiple areas.

20. Hanging one’s heart on wealth.

身代につるる心
Shindai ni tsururu-kokoro

Meaning: Money isn’t everything. Clinging to material wealth or possessions can lead to a lack of contentment, inner peace, and fulfilment.