What are "Kichijomon" (lucky motifs) that are considered to be auspicious?

Auspicious motifs are not only found in celebrations and kimono patterns, but are also surprisingly common in everyday life. There are many different types, such as cranes, turtles, and Mount Fuji. Each of these designs has a meaning, This time, we will introduce some of the designs and their meanings. Learn about the designs and meanings and feel closer to them.

What are the different auspicious symbols and their meanings?

1. Crane

It is no exaggeration to say that it is one of the auspicious motifs that is most familiar to us in our daily lives. As the proverb goes, "A crane lives for a thousand years, a turtle lives for ten thousand years," cranes are known as a symbol of longevity. And because of their appearance of harmonious marriage, cranes are also considered a symbol of marital bliss.

Wakasa-nuri - Auspicious Crest Crane Red 22.5cm

Decorative paulownia wood box for assorted chopsticks and chopstick rests - Crane

2. Mount Fuji

It is one of the most essential symbols of Japan. It has been worshipped as a sacred mountain since ancient times, and is said to contain auspicious words such as "Fuji" (Fuji), which means a unique and magnificent mountain, and "Fushi" (Fushi), which means eternity. It is said to have the meaning of "good luck and prosperity" and "fulfillment of wishes."

Wakasa Lacquerware - Auspicious Mt. Fuji design, light blue, 22.5cm

Hasami Ware Small Plate - Mount Fuji

3. Gavel

It is probably known as the magic mallet. It is said that by making a wish while shaking the mallet, you can get what you want or any wish will come true. Daikokuten, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, also holds the magic mallet. Daikokuten is said to be the god of wealth and prosperity, and the mallet is a symbol of wealth and is considered a lucky charm that brings good fortune and brings good luck.

Wakasa lacquerware - Auspicious crest gavel red 22.5cm

Bamboo chopstick rest - mallet

4. Cat

When people think of "good fortune," the first thing that comes to mind is the beckoning cat, right? Not only beckoning cats, but cats themselves have been thought of as auspicious animals, with the power to ward off evil spirits. Among merchants, calico cats are considered to be auspicious cats known as "cats of prosperity," and many calico beckoning cats are made. A beckoning cat with its right paw raised is said to bring good fortune, while one with its left paw raised is said to bring people. Each color also has a meaning, so it might be fun to look for one with the meaning you want.

Hasami Ware Bansaku Original Auspicious Crest Sake Cup - Cat

Hasami ware chopstick rest, Window cat - sitting

5. Fukura Sparrow

In winter, you can see plump sparrows with air in their feathers. Sparrows themselves have been considered auspicious, but this plump and adorable bird in particular is considered a lucky charm representing abundance, and is called Fukura Suzume with the meaning of wishing for wealth and prosperity. Fukura Suzume is known as a winter seasonal word in the world of haiku.

Hasami Ware Small Plate - Fukura Suzume

Yoshino Hinoki Coaster with Auspicious Crest "Fukura Sparrow"

summary

What did you think of the auspicious crests introduced this time? In addition to the five auspicious crests introduced above, there are many other designs, each with various meanings and wishes, such as bringing good fortune or increasing one's financial luck. There are many auspicious patterns that are just cute to look at, so why not try incorporating them into your daily life on chopsticks, small plates, etc.? It is also recommended to learn the meaning of each design and choose a gift based on that meaning.

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