13 in Japanese

Learn how to say “13” in Japanese. If you learn the numbers carefully one by one, you will find it easier to live in Japan. Let's study together!

How to say number thirteen in Japanese

In Japanese, “13” is “十三 じゅうさん /jusan/”.

Japanese idioms using the number thirteen

There are several words using thirteen.

• 十三

This is the name of a place in Osaka. It is read as “じゅうそう /ju u sou/,” not じゅうさん /ju u san/. In fact, many Japanese cannot read it. Unless you live in the Kansai region, many people do not know it.

• 十三参り

Jusan mairi is to celebrate the growth of children who have reached the age of 13. Depending on the region, some people celebrate it and some do not.

• 十三回忌

In Japanese Buddhism, a Buddhist memorial service is held 12 or 13 years after the death of a deceased person.

Is 13 an unlucky number in Japan?

In the West, the number 13 is not a good number. However, the number 13 is not so ominous in Japan.

However, even for Japanese people, there is a perception that Friday the 13th is a bad day. Many people do not care about the number 13 as being unlucky, while others do.