Why is Japan so obsessed with the color red? Everywhere you look - from shrines, to signs, to paper, to the flag - a shade of red is present. What is it with that color that makes Japan love it so much?
In Japan, there are many connotations with the color but it mainly means both exorcism and beauty. This is probably why most shrines, temples, and torii gates are painted red, to exude a feeling of beauty and to keep away unwanted spirits. It is also the color for luck, thus having most good luck charms with the shade of red. Wearing red in weddings and birthday celebrations are also said to attract luck.
The color is also considered very powerful in the country’s culture. It represents strong emotions and power. A large red circle can also be found in the middle of Japan’s which represents the sun contrary to the yellow sun most Western countries believes in.
If ever you’re planning to go to Japan, be sure to pack something of the color red in your luggage!
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