Japanese culture has a unique tradition of keeping the newborn's umbilical cord. The practice has been in existence for centuries and signifies various beliefs, including honoring the connection between mother and child, connecting the child to their ancestors, promoting health and well-being, strengthening family bonds, remembering birth details, bringing good luck and fortune, and honoring tradition. The umbilical cord is seen as a natural object that connects the child to the earth and all living things. It symbolizes the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.