Japanese culture is deeply rooted in traditions, many of which are expressed through superstitions passed down for generations. These beliefs often come from Shinto, Buddhism, folklore, and daily life practices, shaping how people think about luck, spirits, and energy.

Whether you're traveling to Japan, studying abroad, or just curious about Japanese culture, understanding these superstitions can offer a deeper insight into the mindset of Japanese society. Let’s explore 20 intriguing Japanese superstitions, their origins, and why people still believe them today!

1. 100 Hiccups (しゃっくり – Shakkuri) Could Lead to Death

An old superstition claims that if you hiccup 100 times in a row, you will die. While this isn't scientifically accurate, the belief likely originated as a cautionary tale to make people take their health seriously. Some say it is linked to yūrei (ghosts) trying to steal your breath.

If someone in Japan hiccups repeatedly, a common reaction is concern, and people may tell them to hold their breath or drink water to stop it immediately.

2. Tying a Knot (結び – Musubi) Could Invite Bad Luck

Tying a knot, especially on clothing or hair ribbons, is sometimes considered bad luck because it symbolizes binding a person to negative energy. This belief comes from Shinto purification rituals, where knots were thought to trap spirits.

However, in contrast, knots are seen as lucky when used in Shinto weddings or protective charms (お守り – omamori), where they symbolize lasting connections.

3. Picking Up a Coin (コイン – Koin) The Right Way Matters

Finding money on the ground is considered lucky, but if the coin is upside down, it is believed to bring misfortune. Some say the upside-down position means it was dropped by someone who suffered bad luck, and picking it up could transfer their misfortune to you.

In contrast, properly placed coins, such as those at shrines or temples, symbolize prosperity and good fortune.

4. Shower Before Entering a House (家に入る前にシャワー – Ie ni Hairu Mae ni Shawā)

It is considered unlucky to enter a home immediately after being in public places—especially after visiting a graveyard, hospital, or shrine—without cleansing yourself first.

This belief comes from Shinto purification customs, where water is thought to wash away bad energy (穢れ – kegare). Many Japanese people will wash their hands, rinse their mouth, or even change clothes after returning home to remove any negative spiritual influences.

5. A Black Cat (黒猫 – Kuroneko) Crossing Your Path Can Be Ominous

In Japan, a black cat crossing your path is generally considered bad luck, just as in many Western cultures. Some believe black cats are messengers of misfortune, linking them to yūrei (ghosts) and spirits (妖怪 – yōkai).

However, in some regions, black cats are actually seen as protectors, particularly for single women. In old Japan, owning a black cat was thought to attract good suitors and bring financial success.

6. Waking Up Late (遅く起きる – Osoku Okiru) Invites a Bad Day

Waking up after sunrise is said to bring bad luck for the day ahead. This superstition comes from Japanese proverbs emphasizing early rising, such as:

💡 「早起きは三文の徳」 (Hayaoki wa Sanmon no Toku) – “Waking up early brings three times the benefits.”

The idea is that early risers are more productive and lucky, while sleeping too late invites laziness and negativity.

7. Humming at Night (歌を口ずさむ – Uta o Kuchizusamu) Attracts Snakes and Spirits

In Japan, humming or whistling at night is believed to attract snakes, ghosts, or even thieves.

This superstition likely started as a way to warn children not to make noise at night, ensuring they wouldn’t disturb spirits or draw attention from criminals. The connection to snakes comes from old folklore where serpents were believed to transform into mischievous spirits.

8. Leaving a Fan Running (扇風機 – Senpūki) Can Cause Death

Known as "fan death", a well-known superstition in Japan suggests that leaving an electric fan on overnight in a closed room could cause suffocation or oxygen depletion.

While modern science debunks this idea, many still turn off their fans before bed or use timers out of habit, reinforcing how deep-rooted this superstition is.

9. Haircut on a Wednesday (水曜日の髪切り – Suiyōbi no Kamikiri) Brings Misfortune

In Japan, it is considered bad luck to cut your hair on a Wednesday.

This belief stems from the Edo period, when barbers were typically closed on Wednesdays. Over time, it became associated with misfortune, and even today, some older generations still avoid haircuts on this day.

10. Biting Your Nails (爪をかむ – Tsume o Kamu) Shortens Your Life

Biting your nails is thought to bring bad luck or even shorten your life.

This belief is often used to encourage self-discipline, since nail-biting is seen as a sign of nervousness, bad habits, or insecurity.

11. Rain on the Day of a Festival (祭りの日の雨 – Matsuri no Hi no Ame) is a Bad Omen

Rain on the day of a festival is believed to wash away good fortune, making it an unlucky sign for the coming year.

However, some Shinto beliefs say rain during weddings is a sign of blessings from the gods.

12. Planting a Pine Tree (松の木を植える – Matsu no Ki o Ueru) Brings Longevity

Pine trees symbolize long life and resilience, but only if planted at the right time.

Planting them on an unlucky day or in the wrong location is thought to bring misfortune, as trees have strong spiritual significance in Shinto beliefs.

13. Turning Over a Shoe (靴をひっくり返す – Kutsu o Hikkurikaesu) Brings Bad Luck

If a shoe is found upside down, it is believed to invite bad energy. To counter this, you should immediately flip it upright and tap it twice to remove negativity.

14. The Color Yellow (黄色 – Kiiro) is Linked to Betrayal

Yellow, especially in clothing or gifts, can symbolize dishonor or betrayal.

This stems from historical periods when criminals or traitors were forced to wear yellow robes as a mark of shame.

15. Hanging Wisteria (藤 – Fuji) Above Your Door Could Cut Ties

Wisteria flowers are beautiful, but hanging them over a doorway is thought to symbolize severing relationships.

This belief comes from the shape of wisteria, which hangs downward, resembling a broken connection.

Final Thoughts

These superstitions are deeply woven into Japanese culture, shaping beliefs about luck, spirits, and daily life. Whether you believe in them or not, they provide a fascinating look into Japan’s traditions and mindset.

If you're interested in learning more about Japanese culture, language, and customs, studying abroad in Japan is the best way to experience these traditions firsthand!

👉 Book a Free Study Abroad Consultation with LALALA Nihon Today! 🚀