JAPAN IN
ONE MINUTE 
~ “Ishin Denshin”（以心伝心）: Understanding Japanese Nonverbal Culture ~
Hey Issy, I heard there’s a Yojijukugo that means “Talking without talking”?
What’s that all about?
That’s a great question, Pecco.
In Japanese, we have a yojijukugo called “Ishin Denshin” (以心伝心).
Want to learn what Yojijukugo are? Check out our introduction post here!
“Ishin” means with all one’s heart.
“Denshin” means to convey one’s heart, or to communicate with one’s mind.
Put together, it describes a special kind of communication where two people can understand each other without using words.
Tap to listen: “Ishin Denshin”
That’s such a uniquely Japanese way of thinking!
It originally comes from Buddhism, where the deepest truths are said to be passed from teacher to student not through speech, but through the heart. Over time, this concept became a cherished part of Japanese culture and everyday life.
In Japan, it’s often said that unspoken understanding can be more meaningful than spoken words.
“Ishin Denshin” reflects the importance of empathy, trust, and nonverbal communication,
something deeply rooted in Japanese social values.
You said something similar when you taught me about the Japanese bowing culture before!
Ahh, that makes sense now! I’ve noticed that sometimes Japanese people seem to understand each other with just a glance or a pause… When I first came here, I was always unsure if I was supposed to say something or just feel it out!
It takes trust, patience, and sometimes years of knowing each other.
In Japan, that kind of silent understanding is considered beautiful.
I still find it hard sometimes, but I’ve come to appreciate how meaningful silence can be.
That’s something truly unique about Japan.
I want to try “Ishin Denshin” too! Let me stare at you and see if you can read my mind…
(“Tuna… give me tuna…”) Did it work!?
I bet you were thinking about tuna again, weren’t you?
It’s always the same with you. You’re so easy to read!
Summary
“Ishin Denshin” (以心伝心) is a Yojijukugo (Japanese four-character idiom). It means “communicating without words through mutual understanding.”
