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Spring Equinox, occurring around March 20th or 21st, is a significant day in Japan when daylight and nighttime hours are approximately equal. It marks the arrival of spring and is one of the twenty-four sekki or seasonal divisions of the solar year in the traditional lunisolar calendar.
The Spring Equinox has deep roots in Shinto beliefs, where it is a time to celebrate nature's renewal and life's vitality. Historically, it was known as "Shunki kōrei-sai," a day to honor imperial ancestors.
With the adoption of Buddhism, the day also became associated with family reunions and honoring ancestral spirits. It evolved into a blend of Shinto and Buddhist traditions called "Higan." Higan means "the other shore" and refers to reaching enlightenment by leaving behind worldly desires.
During this period, both the week leading up to and following the equinox are known as "Higan-e," an important time for spiritual observance.
On Spring Equinox Day:
Grave Visitation: Many Japanese visit family gravesites to clean them, offer flowers, burn incense sticks, and pray for their ancestors' spirits. This practice is known as "Ohigan."
Nature Appreciation: People take time to appreciate nature's beauty by partaking in outdoor activities or visiting parks where cherry blossoms might be starting to bloom.
Buddhist Services: Buddhists may attend special services at temples where they engage in meditation and reflect on the impermanence of life.
Seasonal Eating: Botamochi (sweet rice cakes with red bean paste) is traditionally eaten during Higan as it symbolizes spiritual contentment.
Since 1948, the Spring Equinox has been an official public holiday in Japan. This allows people to take off work or school to engage in these cultural practices.
