What does Subaru mean in Japan?
Subaru, a well-known Japanese automotive brand, has a name that holds significant meaning in Japan. The word "Subaru" is the Japanese name for the Pleiades star cluster, also known as the Seven Sisters, which is visible in the night sky.
The Significance of the Pleiades Star Cluster
The Pleiades star cluster has been an important part of Japanese culture and mythology for centuries. In Japanese, the cluster is called "Subaru," which translates to "to unite" or "to gather together." This name reflects the idea of the stars coming together as a group, much like the six companies that merged to form the Subaru Corporation.
The Pleiades star cluster has also been associated with various cultural and religious beliefs in Japan. It has been seen as a symbol of unity, harmony, and the interconnectedness of all things. The cluster's appearance in the night sky has been used to mark the changing of the seasons and the passage of time.
The Subaru Logo and its Meaning
The Subaru logo, which features six stars, is a direct representation of the Pleiades star cluster. The six stars in the logo symbolize the six companies that merged to form Subaru, while the overall design reflects the idea of unity and collaboration that is central to the brand's identity.
The Subaru logo is not only a visual representation of the company's name but also a reflection of the deep cultural and historical significance of the Pleiades star cluster in Japan. By using this iconic symbol, Subaru has been able to establish a strong connection with its Japanese heritage and the values that are important to the brand.
Conclusion
The name "Subaru" and the brand's iconic logo hold deep meaning in Japan, reflecting the country's rich cultural and astronomical heritage. By embracing this symbolism, Subaru has been able to create a strong and distinctive brand identity that resonates with both Japanese and international consumers.
What is Subaru in Japan?
Subaru started as an aircraft research company named Fuji Heavy Industries in 1915, however they would soon reorganize to become the chief aircraft manufacturer for Japan during World War II. After the war effort, the company pivoted towards car manufacturing, thus creating the Subaru brand.
What does Toyota mean in Japan?
fertile rice patty
The original Toyoda company invented and produced numerous types of looms. In 1933, Toyoda decided to foray into the automotive market, expanding greatly in 1956 after steady successes. Toyoda means “fertile rice patty” referring to Japan's most prominent cash crop.
What does mooing a Subaru mean?
"Moo Moo Subaru" is a community-driven trend where Subaru owners leave small toy cows on other Subaru vehicles as a sign of appreciation and camaraderie. It's similar to the "Duck Duck Jeep" trend and involves placing a cow, often with a note, on a fellow owner's car to brighten their day. The movement was inspired by the Subaru name rhyming with "moo" and a connection to the Subaru logo's representation of the Taurus constellation (a bull).
Key aspects of the Moo Moo Subaru movement:
- How it works: Participants leave a small toy cow on another Subaru they encounter. Often, a note saying "You have been Moo'd!" is included, sometimes with a QR code to a Facebook group.
- Inspiration: The trend was started by a Subaru owner who wanted a mascot for her car, similar to the rubber ducks left on Jeeps. She chose cows because "moo" rhymes with "Subaru" and because the Subaru logo is part of the Taurus constellation.
- Purpose: The goal is to spread joy and create a sense of connection among Subaru owners. It's a form of random act of kindness.
- Community: The movement has grown through social media, with large online groups dedicated to sharing "moo-ving" experiences.
- Variations: The type of cow can vary, from small figurines to keychains, and participants get creative with how they leave them.
What does "Pleiades
While the Pleiades, in Greek mythology, was a group of seven sisters, only six of the sister stars that make up the constellation are easily visible from Earth. So, the six stars represent the six companies that merged to form Subaru.
