July: The Month of “Hitsuji” (Sheep) – Exploring the Connection Between the Zodiac and Japanese Culture

In Japan, there is a traditional calendar system known as the eto, or the twelve zodiac signs, which uses a cycle of twelve animals to represent not only years, but also months, times of day, and directions.

When people hear “eto,” they often think of questions like, “What’s this year’s zodiac sign?” However, the zodiac system is much deeper than just marking the year—it’s closely connected to time, nature, and even personality in traditional thought.

For example, July is the month of “未” (read as hitsuji, meaning sheep). “未” is the eighth of the twelve zodiac signs and corresponds to the sheep.

What’s the Difference Between “未” and “羊”？
In Japanese, there are two different kanji that are both read as hitsuji (sheep): “未” and “羊.” While they are pronounced the same, their meanings differ slightly.

• “羊”refers to the actual animal, the sheep. You’ll see it in everyday contexts like “羊の毛” (sheep’s wool) or “羊の肉” (lamb meat).

• “未” is used as a zodiac symbol. When referring to the zodiac calendar or traditional culture, this kanji is used instead.

Why Was “未” Chosen for the Zodiac?
The kanji “未” originally came from a pictograph representing tree branches that haven’t fully grown. It symbolized a stage of growth that is not yet complete, which made it a fitting choice to represent the transitional period in midsummer, as July leads toward the end of the season.

Later on, the animal sheep (“羊”) came to be associated with “未.” There are several theories why: some say the kanji “未” visually resembles “羊,” while others suggest that the ancient Chinese pronunciation of “未” was similar to the bleating sound of a sheep.

What Does the Zodiac Sign “未” Represent?
In traditional belief, the zodiac sign “未” is associated with gentleness and compassion. Sheep are animals that move in groups, and they are often seen as symbols of family harmony and peaceful relationships.

Within the calendar, “未” represents a time of transition—the end of summer and the beginning of reflection. It’s a moment to look back on the first half of the year and prepare calmly for the second half.

Ikedaya Exclusive: Zodiac Motif Small Goods in Koshu Inden – Featuring “Hitsuji” (Sheep)
At Ikedaya, we offer a special series of Koshu Inden, a traditional Japanese leathercraft, featuring zodiac-themed designs.

>> What is Koshu Inden? <<

This craft dates back to the time of the samurai, when decorative leatherwork was used on armor. Even today, this centuries-old technique continues to shine with timeless elegance.

The “Hitsuji” design features a soft, gentle appearance and is popular not only among people born in the Year of the Sheep, but also among those who simply like its look.

↓View “Hitsuji” Motif Inden Items↓

>Change Purse<

>Card Case<

>Long Wallet with L-Shaped Zipper<

There are twelve zodiac designs in total, so we invite you to find one that matches your birth year or personal favorite character.