Dream interpretation, or "yume uranai" (夢占い), has been practiced in Japan for centuries. Traditional beliefs associate dreams with good or bad omens, especially regarding hatsuyume (初夢), or the first dream of the year, and dreams of deities and ancestors. Below are some specific examples of dream interpretation in Japan.
1. Traditional Dream Interpretation
① Hatsuyume (First Dream of the Year – January 2nd)
In Japan, the dream you have at the beginning of the year is believed to predict your fortune for the coming year.A particularly auspicious dream is the saying:"Ichi Fuji, Ni Taka, San Nasubi" (一富士、二鷹、三茄子)which means:
Mt. Fuji → Success, prosperity, longevity
Hawk (Taka) → Ambition, victory, good fortune
Eggplant (Nasubi) → Achievement, accomplishment
This phrase is said to have originated from Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.
② Dreams of Gods, Buddhas, and Ancestors
Seeing a deity or Buddha → Good fortune, divine protection, wish fulfillment
Dreaming of a shrine or temple → Peace of mind, rising fortune
Seeing deceased ancestors → Important messages, warnings
2. Common Dream Meanings (Good and Bad Omens)
【Good Dreams (Auspicious Omens)】
Dragon → Great success, career advancement, financial gain
Snake → Increased wealth (especially a white snake is a very lucky sign)
A hawk flying high → Achievement, rising social status
Cherry blossoms in full bloom → Happiness, romantic success
【Bad Dreams (Warnings)】
Losing teeth → Health problems for yourself or a loved one
Falling from a high place → Anxiety, environmental changes
Fire (depends on the intensity)
A big fire → A positive change in fortune (stronger flames indicate better luck)
Small or smoldering fire → Trouble, declining health
Death (someone dying in a dream)
Your own death → A symbolic rebirth, a good omen
A friend or relative dying → A change in your relationship with that person
3. Unique Aspects of Japanese Dream Interpretation
Closely tied to seasons and events (e.g., hatsuyume, Setsubun, Tanabata dreams)
Influenced by Shinto and Buddhist beliefs (dreams of gods and temples are often seen as auspicious)
Wordplay-based interpretations (e.g., nasu (ナス) = "to accomplish," hebi (蛇, snake) = associated with wealth)
Although dream interpretation is not scientifically proven, it remains popular in Japan as part of cultural traditions and superstitions. Many people still enjoy analyzing their dreams for fun and insight into their lives.
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