Spring Equinox Day (Shunbun no Hi) is a special day when day and night are almost equal in length.
It’s one of Japan’s national holidays, established to honor nature and appreciate all living creatures around us.
This article will explore the meaning of Spring Equinox Day, its historical background, and contemporary ways to celebrate it.
What is the meaning of Spring Equinox Day?
Spring Equinox Day originates from “Shunbun,” one of the 24 seasonal divisions in the traditional East Asian calendar.
This is an astronomically significant day when the sun rises exactly from the east and sets exactly in the west.
After the Spring Equinox, daylight hours gradually become longer, marking the true arrival of spring.
This day has been considered an important seasonal turning point since ancient times and continues to be deeply connected to our lives today.
Origins and History of Spring Equinox Day
Spring Equinox Day was originally called “Shunki Kōreisai,” which was an important ceremony for the Imperial Family to honor their ancestors.
In 1948, it was established as a national holiday under its current name, “Shunbun no Hi.”
This holiday was defined with the meaning “to praise nature and show affection for living things,” making it a beloved holiday for many people.
Traditions and Culture Surrounding Spring Equinox Day
1. Higan and Grave Visits
The three days before and after Spring Equinox Day are called “Spring Higan.”
During this period, it’s customary to visit ancestral graves.
There’s also a nationwide tradition of eating or offering sweet treats called “Botamochi” or “Ohagi” during this time.
2. Connection to Agriculture
Spring Equinox Day has traditionally marked the beginning of agricultural work.
It serves as a key reference point for preparing for rice planting and seed sowing, making it an important milestone for farmers even today.
As the weather begins to warm up, it’s the perfect time to start preparing for spring crops.
3. Gratitude for Nature and Animals
As a day meant “to praise nature and show affection for living things,” Spring Equinox Day has special significance.
More people are participating in environmental conservation activities or spending quality time with their pets.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to renew our appreciation for nature’s gifts at this seasonal turning point.
Lovely Ways to Spend Spring Equinox Day
Family Grave Visits
Traditionally, families visit ancestral graves together on this day.
This creates a special time to express gratitude to ancestors while strengthening family bonds.
Experiencing Nature and Spring
To experience the arrival of spring, it’s recommended to take a leisurely walk in the park, enjoy a picnic, or start gardening.
As cherry blossom buds begin to swell around this time, it’s also nice to scout locations for cherry blossom viewing.
Enjoying Seasonal Foods
Making Botamochi and Ohagi by hand or enjoying dishes made with spring vegetables allows you to taste the changing seasons.
Spring delicacies like rapeseed flowers, bamboo shoots, and butterbur are not only delicious but also nutritious and good for your health.
Summary
Spring Equinox Day is a special day when day and night are almost equal in length, announcing the arrival of full spring.
Its origins lie in Imperial ceremonies, and today it’s widely celebrated as a day to respect ancestors and love nature.
Visiting graves with family, connecting with spring nature, and enjoying seasonal foods are all ways to appreciate Japanese traditions while welcoming spring.
Why not use this holiday as an opportunity to step away from your busy daily life and take time to reflect on your connections with important people and nature?
