Japan is a country with a rich culture and history, and this is often reflected in its language. Idioms are a fun way to learn about Japan’s unique perspective on life, nature, and human relationships. Here, we’ll explore some common English idioms that are connected to Japan or have a Japanese theme. Even kids can understand these expressions, as they are simple and interesting!
Japan Idioms
Here are 20 Japan idioms in English.
1. Land of the Rising Sun
Meaning: Japan
Example: I want to visit the Land of the Rising Sun.
2. Samurai spirit
Meaning: Bravery, discipline
Example: He showed true samurai spirit in the game.
3. Sushi belt
Meaning: A rotating sushi restaurant
Example: Let’s eat at the sushi belt tonight.
4. Koi pond
Meaning: A peaceful, decorative pond
Example: Their garden has a beautiful koi pond.
5. Cherry blossom dreams
Meaning: Wishes made in spring
Example: She had cherry blossom dreams about her future.
6. Zen garden peace
Meaning: Tranquil and meditative
Example: I feel Zen garden peace here.
7. Paper crane wishes
Meaning: Hopes for peace or recovery
Example: They made paper crane wishes for health.
8. Mount Fuji view
Meaning: A scenic, iconic vista
Example: We enjoyed a Mount Fuji view at dawn.
9. Geisha grace
Meaning: Elegant and well-mannered
Example: She moved with geisha grace.
10. Shogun leader
Meaning: Powerful, commanding leader
Example: He acts like a shogun leader.
11. Bonsai patience
Meaning: The patience needed to grow bonsai
Example: You need bonsai patience for this project.
12. Tokyo pace
Meaning: Very fast and busy
Example: I love the Tokyo pace of life.
13. Sake toast
Meaning: A celebratory drink
Example: They raised a sake toast to success.
14. Bullet train speed
Meaning: Extremely fast
Example: He finished the work with bullet train speed.
15. Sumo strength
Meaning: Very strong or powerful
Example: He lifted the box with sumo strength.
16. Kimono style
Meaning: Traditional and elegant fashion
Example: She dressed in kimono style for the festival.
17. Haiku moment
Meaning: A moment of poetic inspiration
Example: Sunrise gave me a haiku moment.
18. Origami fold
Meaning: Intricate and precise
Example: The plan required origami fold precision.
19. Futon night
Meaning: Sleeping on a Japanese mattress
Example: We had a futon night at their home.
20. Wasabi hot
Meaning: Very spicy
Example: This sauce is wasabi hot!
