Sanpo-Yoshi (Three-way Satisfaction)

Shop curtains hung at storefronts are not mere sun shades but symbols of a long-established business's history and trust. As expressed in idioms like 'protecting the noren' and 'noren-wake' (branch business), noren represents business credibility itself. The design and color indicate a shop's status, serving as a visual trust device in Japanese commercial culture.

Ideal business where seller, buyer, and society all benefit. Edo period Omi merchant management philosophy. Not mere profit-seeking but emphasizing social contribution and long-term trust. Precursor of modern sustainability business. Demonstrates ideal of transaction making everyone happy.

A Japanese word expressing a sense of regret over waste. Kenyan Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai introduced it to the world as a concept encompassing Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Respect. It is being reevaluated as a Japanese environmental philosophy contributing to the realization of a sustainable society.

Furoshiki, a single cloth that can wrap anything, has gained global attention as a solution to disposable plastic waste. Since former Environment Minister Yuriko Koike promoted MOTTAINAI furoshiki, they have spread internationally as alternatives to eco-bags. This is a prime example of Japanese traditional wisdom acquiring modern value in the context of sustainability.

A concept based on guilt about wasting food and materials, and recognition that everything has value. It places cherishing and fully using resources at the core of values. Rooted in Edo-period circular economy thinking, it is re-evaluated in contemporary sustainability and SDG contexts. Wangari Maathai, 2004 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, internationally promoted this Japanese value.

A Japanese ethical value cherishing objects and avoiding waste. Born from gratitude and respect for limited resources, rooted in Edo-period common culture. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Wangari Maathai brought it to global attention in 2005, connecting it to sustainability. It embodies the virtue of not treating things carelessly.

Philosophy recognizing value in broken or seemingly useless things. Kintsugi is its prime example, finding new beauty through repair rather than disposal. Rooted in Edo-period culture treasuring objects, it evolves into modern sustainability and upcycling concepts. It represents respect for inherent value in all things.