In every culture, wisdom flows through the words of its artists, writers, philosophers, and influential figures.
Their insights offer profound reflections on life, beauty, and the human condition, narrating together a unique perspective shaped by centuries of tradition and innovation.
This article brings you a collection of japanese quotes about life that capture the soul of Japanese thought, revealing inspiring contemporary contemplation.
From the serene musings of Zen masters to the evocative expressions of renowned writers, these quotes provide a glimpse into the heart of Japan's intellectual and artistic legacy.
4 best quotes from Morihei Ueshiba
Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969), born in Tanabe, Japan, is the founder of Aikido. Growing up in a family of landowners, he pursued various martial arts from a young age, including Jujutsu, Kenjutsu, and Sojutsu.
“ Failure is the key to success; each mistake teaches us something. ”
Collection of Morihei Ueshiba's quotes
His training with Sokaku Takeda in Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu and his spiritual studies under Onisaburo Deguchi of the Omoto-kyo religion greatly influenced his development of Aikido.
“ Your spirit is the true shield. ”
Collection of Morihei Ueshiba's quotes
In the 1920s, Ueshiba began teaching his martial art, initially called Aiki Budo. By the 1940s, it had evolved into Aikido, characterized by its emphasis on harmony, fluid movements, and using an opponent's energy against them. After World War II, he focused even more on the art's peaceful and spiritual aspects.
“ A good stance and posture reflect a proper state of mind. ”
Collection of Morihei Ueshiba's quotes
some lesser-known facts about Morihei Ueshiba:
- Diverse Early Training: Ueshiba trained in multiple martial arts styles before developing Aikido, including Yagyu-ryu jujutsu, Tenjin Shin'yō-ryū jujutsu, Goto-ha Yagyu Shingan-ryu jujutsu, and Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu. Each of these contributed elements to what would become Aikido.
- Military Background: Ueshiba served in the Japanese army during the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905), where he developed his martial skills and physical conditioning, which later influenced his martial arts philosophy.
- Personal Hardships: Ueshiba faced significant personal hardships, including the loss of his three sons during their childhood. These tragedies profoundly affected his outlook on life and contributed to his spiritual journey.
- Connection with Onisaburo Deguchi: Ueshiba was a close associate of Onisaburo Deguchi, the spiritual leader of the Ōmoto-kyō religion. Deguchi's teachings on universal love and peace greatly influenced Ueshiba's development of Aikido's principles.
- Influence of Nature: Ueshiba often drew inspiration from nature, especially the movement of natural elements like water and wind. He believed in harmonizing with these forces rather than opposing them, which became a fundamental aspect of Aikido techniques.
- Mystical Experiences: Ueshiba claimed to have had several mystical experiences that shaped his understanding of Aikido. These included visions of divine beings and moments of enlightenment where he felt a profound connection with the universe.
- Agricultural Pursuits: Ueshiba was an avid farmer and believed in the importance of self-sufficiency and living in harmony with nature. He established a farm in Iwama, where he lived and taught Aikido, combining martial training with agricultural work.
- Innovative Training Methods: Ueshiba was known for his unconventional training methods. He often incorporated practices like meditation, breathing exercises, and chanting into his training sessions to develop both the physical and spiritual aspects of his students.
- Resistance During WWII: During World War II, Ueshiba distanced himself from the militaristic use of martial arts. He moved to the countryside and focused on developing Aikido as a means of personal and spiritual growth rather than combat.
- Legacy of Innovation: Even in his later years, Ueshiba continued to evolve and refine Aikido. He remained a dynamic and adaptive teacher, always seeking to improve and deepen his understanding of the martial art he created.
Ueshiba continued refining and teaching Aikido until his death. His legacy endures through Aikido practitioners worldwide who follow his teachings of harmony and non-violence.
“Create each day anew by clothing yourself with heaven and earth, bathing yourself with wisdom and love, and placing yourself in the heart of Mother Nature.”
Quotes from D. T. Suzuki
D. T. Suzuki (1870–1966) was a Japanese Zen Buddhist scholar who introduced Zen to the Western world. Born in Kanazawa, he left the University of Tokyo to study under Zen masters.
“ To live – is that not enough? ”
Collection of D. T. Suzuki's quotes
His translation work began with the 1893 World Parliament of Religions in Chicago.
“Eternity is the Absolute present.”
Collection of D. T. Suzuki's quotes
Suzuki's writings and teachings significantly influenced global understanding of Zen and Buddhism.
“If I am asked If I am asked, then, what Zen teaches, I would answer, Zen teaches nothing. Whatever teachings there are in Zen, they come out of one's own mind. We teach ourselves; Zen merely points the way.”
3 quotes from Masanobu Fukuoka
Masanobu Fukuoka (1913-2008) was a Japanese farmer and philosopher renowned for pioneering the natural farming movement. Born in Iyo, Ehime Prefecture, he initially pursued a career in microbiology and plant pathology but became disillusioned with modern agricultural practices.
“Giving up your ego is the shortest way to unification with nature.”
Collection of Masanobu Fukuoka's quotes
Returning to his family farm, Fukuoka developed a holistic approach to farming that emphasized working with nature rather than against it. His methods, known as "do-nothing farming," advocate minimal intervention, no-till farming, and the use of cover crops.
“Ignorance, hatred and greed are killing nature.”
Collection of Masanobu Fukuoka's quotes
Fukuoka's influential book, "The One-Straw Revolution," has inspired sustainable farming practices worldwide and highlights his belief in the interconnectedness of life and the importance of natural ecosystems.
“The simple hearth of the small farm is the true center of our universe.”
Collection of Masanobu Fukuoka's quotes
2 quotes from Yukichi Fukuzawa
Yukichi Fukuzawa (1835-1901) was a Japanese intellectual and educator instrumental in Japan's modernization during the Meiji Era. Born in Osaka, he founded Keio University and advocated for education, individual rights, and social reform.
“ We should mutually teach and learn from each other, without shame or pride. ”
Collection of Yukichi Fukuzawa's quotes
His works, such as "An Encouragement of Learning" and "Outline of a Theory of Civilization," promoted Western ideas and self-reliance, significantly shaping Japan's transition to a modern state.
“ Dispassionate calculation cannot decide everything. ” 
Collection of Yukichi Fukuzawa's quotes
Quotes from Toyotomi Hideyoshi
Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537-1598), rose from peasant origins to become a leading samurai and daimyo during Japan's Sengoku period. Initially serving under Oda Nobunaga, Hideyoshi avenged his mentor's death in 1582 and unified Japan by 1590.
“ The seeds of great victory lie in minor triumphs. ”
His reforms in land surveys, taxation, and samurai residency laid the foundation for the stable Edo period. Despite ambitious but failed military campaigns in Korea, Hideyoshi's leadership and strategic prowess left a lasting impact on Japan's history.
“ Fight only after creating conditions for victory. ”
2 quotes from Matsuo Bashō
Matsuo Bashō (1644-1694), is one of Japan's most renowned poets, celebrated for his haiku. Initially a samurai, he turned to poetry and became a master of the haikai no renga form. Bashō's work is characterized by its simplicity, natural imagery, and profound depth.
“ The moon is brighter since the barn burned. ”
Collection of Matsuo Basho's quotes
His travels across Japan, documented in works like "The Narrow Road to the Deep North", deeply influenced his poetry. Bashō's refined style and contemplative themes significantly shaped Japanese literature. . Bashō's influence on Japanese literature and his enduring legacy as a poet continue to be revered.
“ Every day is a journey, and the journey itself is home. ”
Collection of Matsuo Basho's quotes
Quotes from miyamoto musashi
Miyamoto Musashi (1584-1645), was a legendary Japanese swordsman famed for his unmatched skill and undefeated record in 61 duels.
“Accept everything just the way it is.”
He developed a unique double-bladed technique and authored "The Book of Five Rings", a classic on martial arts and strategy.
“ You can only fight the way you practice. ”
Collection of Miyamoto Musashi's quotes
