My former Japanese GF married an American and now lives in the US. As she recently gave birth, I asked her if she saved the umbilical cord...she replied: Yes! I keep (YOSHI)'s emblical cord as a Japanese tradition. It is very important for me and (YOSHI) because it is the proof of we were connected by the umblical coad.
It is miracle!!!

I was a little surprised, as there are many Japanese traditions she doesn't like.