Japanese Words: 5 Phrases With Deep Meaning to Know

The Japanese language is filled with special words that describe deep feelings, habits, and ways of seeing the world. Many of these don’t have direct English translations but express something instantly recognizable. Let’s take a look at some words you should know.

Wabi-Sabi (侘寂)

Wabi-sabi is finding beauty in imperfect, old, or simple things. It teaches us to appreciate items with cracks, faded colors, or signs of age. Instead of throwing something away because it’s broken, wabi-sabi helps us see value in its story. This concept appears in pottery, art, design, and even in how homes are decorated.

This word is often used when talking about nature or handmade things. A leaf with spots or a chipped teacup can feel more beautiful because it shows time has passed. Wabi-sabi brings peace by helping us accept change and flaws. In Japan, many people say it brings calm to a fast-changing world. Overall, wabi-sabi reminds people that nothing lasts forever—and that’s okay.

Tsundoku (積ん読)

Tsundoku means buying books and letting them pile up without reading them. It’s not a bad habit—it shows a love for stories and knowledge, even if there’s no time to read everything. Many people smile when they hear this word because they recognize themselves. A stack of unread books can feel like a future of ideas waiting to be opened. In Japan, tsundoku is both funny and true.

The word comes from “tsunde” (to pile up) and “oku” (to leave) with “doku” (reading). It can describe books on a nightstand, a bookshelf, or even digital collections. Tsundoku reminds us that wanting to read is just as important as reading itself. It’s a gentle way to admit we dream big but live busy lives. Having more books than time isn’t failure, it’s hope.

Shokunin (職人)

Shokunin means a master of a skill or craft—someone who does their work with great care and pride. But it’s more than just being good at something. A true shokunin works to earn money, improve the craft, and bring value to others. This word reflects a strong sense of responsibility and love for detail. Whether a sushi chef or a woodworker, a shokunin gives 100% to the job.

The word also includes a moral side—doing the right thing even when no one is watching. A shokunin doesn’t rush, cut corners, or look for shortcuts. Their work is quiet, focused, and full of meaning. Japan deeply respects this dedication, which shows in everything from food to fashion. Shokunin is a reminder that doing something well is a lifelong journey.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by TokyoTreat (@tokyotreat)

Are you looking for great snacks to enjoy while learning Japanese? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers the latest Japanese snacks, sweets, drinks, candy, and noodles from Japan directly to your door!

Kuchisabishii (口寂しい)

Kuchisabishii means “lonely mouth”—when you eat because you’re bored, not hungry. It’s that feeling when you reach for a snack even though your stomach is full. This word is funny, honest, and very relatable. It captures a common habit without judgment, just quiet understanding. In Japan, people say it with a laugh when they open a snack without thinking.

The word combines “kuchi” (mouth) and “sabishii” (lonely), showing how emotions and habits connect. Kuchisabishii reminds us that eating is often about comfort, not just food. It’s a kind of emotional nibbling, tied to mood or memory. The word helps people talk about small behaviors without guilt. Gently, it teaches awareness and self-kindness.

Shinrin-yoku (森林浴)

Shinrin-yoku means “forest bathing,” or taking slow, quiet walks in nature to relax and refresh the mind. It’s about being still and soaking in the forest’s sounds, sights, and smells. In Japan, people often go to the woods for this purpose, treating it as a way to heal. Some doctors even recommend shinrin-yoku to reduce stress and boost health.

This idea shows how much Japan values the bond between people and the natural world. Even in big cities, people find parks and green spaces for moments of peace. Shinrin-yoku encourages deep breathing, strolling, and listening to birds or rustling leaves. It’s a break from screens and schedules. In a fast world, shinrin-yoku is about letting nature calm your thoughts.

What do these words tell us about Japanese culture?

These five words show that Japanese culture values calm, care, and awareness of everyday life. Whether it’s noticing quiet beauty, honoring skilled work, or laughing at daily habits, the language finds meaning in small things. Words like wabi-sabi and shinrin-yoku encourage people to slow down and enjoy the present. Others, like tsundoku and kuchisabishii, offer gentle ways to describe common behaviors without shame.

They also show that words shape how people live and relate to the world in Japan. These terms hold history, humor, and philosophy in just a few syllables. Learning them helps us understand language and values like respect, patience, and balance. Did you know about these unique Japanese words? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!

Cited Sources

• Hyper Japan. “Wabi-Sabi“.
• Japanese National Tourism Organization. “Forest Bathing in Japan (Shinrin-yoku) | Guide“.
• Kyoto Journal. “Shokunin and Devotion“.