Customs and meanings of the first day of spring: A record of a journey through Japan through the four seasons

Customs and meanings of the first day of spring: A record of a journey through Japan through the four seasons

Japan’s annual events and solar terms each have their own unique colors and are deeply rooted in our lives. My name is Kasumi and I am a travel web writer. So far, I have traveled to 47 prefectures across Japan, experiencing the history and culture of each region, as well as the customs of each season. This time, I would like to focus on the seasonal season called “Risshun,” which heralds the arrival of spring, and will tell you about its history and origin, as well as the customs of each region and how it has changed up to the present day, along with my own travel experiences.

The first day of spring is the moment when the cold winter air gradually eases and we feel the breath of life. At the beginning of a new season, there are many customs passed down from our ancestors. They still have hidden meanings in our lives, and sometimes have different colors depending on the region. In this article, I would like to introduce the characteristics and meaning of Risshun, along with its historical background, and write about how it has been passed down to the present day through my own eyes. Why not take a little time with us and listen to the beautiful customs of Japan?

Origin and historical background of Risshun

The first day of spring is one of the 40 seasonal seasons that have been rooted in Japan since ancient times, and is a day that symbolizes the changes in nature throughout the year. Let’s start by exploring its origins to see what kind of message this solar term is conveying to us.

What is the first day of spring?

When many people hear the word Risshun,'' they may imagine that it meansthe day when spring begins.” In fact, the first day of spring is the first seasonal period of the year according to the lunar calendar, and refers to the day when the sun reaches ecliptic longitude 315 degrees. This has been seen as a sign that the energy for a new year is beginning to emerge and that all things are gradually starting to become active.

historical background

The origin of the first day of spring dates back to ancient China. In the past, in China, one year was defined as the winter solstice until the next winter solstice, and the period was divided into 24 seasonal periods. It is said that this idea was introduced to Japan during the Nara period, and then merged with Japan’s unique climate and culture, developing into its own customs.

Customs of the first day of spring

For example, the things that left an impression on me during my travels were bean-throwing and Setsubun. On Setsubun, the day before the first day of spring, there is a custom of throwing beans to ward off evil spirits and invite good fortune into your home. This event is held all over the country, but the bean-throwing event at Yoshida Shrine in Kyoto is especially famous, attracting thousands of worshipers.

There is also a custom of eating seven spring herbs on the first day of spring. Since ancient times, it has been said that this festival has the meaning of praying for good health and improving one’s health at the beginning of a new season. When I put this habit into practice, I felt a complete change from the heavy meals of winter to lighter meals that reminded me of the arrival of spring.

The first day of spring and modern society

Even in modern Japan, the first day of spring is an important time to feel the start of a new year. Many companies often start new projects during this time, and schools prepare for the new school year. It is also a time when people become more aware of changes in nature as they hear the word “first day of spring” in weather forecasts.

In this way, the first day of spring is not just a seasonal turning point, but has a historical and cultural meaning that is deeply connected to the life and psychology of the Japanese people. Traveling back in history and experiencing the customs of the first day of spring in each region is an irreplaceable treasure for me.

Characteristics of the first day of spring and its meaning

The first day of spring in Japan is not just a milestone. For the Japanese people, who are sensitive to changes in nature and associate them with annual events, the first day of spring is an important time to prepare and welcome the arrival of spring from within. Let’s dig into its characteristics and meaning.

Symbols of the first day of spring and changes in the natural world

The first day of spring is a symbolic day when signs of spring begin to appear in the natural world, as it is written as “spring begins.” For example, the earth that cooled down in winter begins to slowly regain its warmth, and plum blossoms begin to bloom. Once, on the first day of spring on Yonaguni Island in Okinawa, I witnessed the moment when the ylang-ylang flowers burst forth, heralding the end of winter. It gave me an indescribable feeling of being able to feel that life was starting to move again.

The first day of spring in people’s lives

The first day of spring also brings changes to people’s lives. It can also be said to be the time to overcome the harsh cold of winter and prepare for the start of a new life cycle. For example, farmers begin preparations for spring rice planting. When I visited a small village in Hokkaido, I was able to see the villagers begin to till the soil in their fields as soon as the first day of spring arrived. This is the moment when the breath of spring invigorates people’s lives and brings hope.

The meaning of Risshun and its influence on modern times

The first day of spring has long been called the “year-old market,” and various rituals have been held to pray for good health and a bountiful harvest for the coming year. Nowadays, these rituals have been passed down in new forms, such as events to pray for good health and campaigns for cleaning services to welcome spring.

The first day of spring also has a strong spiritual meaning, and is considered a good time to start new things. For example, career women often use the first day of spring to create new business plans and attend seminars to improve their skills. During this time of year, I am also filled with a fresh feeling of thinking of new article themes and creating a writing schedule.

The first day of spring is an important season that not only brings about changes in the natural world, but also brings spring into people’s hearts. In the next part, we will introduce the colorful culture of various parts of Japan, focusing on the customs of the first day of spring in each region. We will use specific examples to tell you how the unique lifestyle and thoughts of each region are expressed through the first day of spring.

The customs of the first day of spring in each region and their charms

Japan is a vast country with a variety of climates and cultures, from Hokkaido in the north to Okinawa in the south. The customs of the first day of spring differ depending on the region, and the arrival of spring has a special meaning in each region. Let me unravel the local customs of the first day of spring that I encountered during my travels.

The first day of spring and its festivals in the Tohoku region

In the Tohoku region, the first day of spring is still very cold, but events are still being held to express hopes for spring. For example, Aomori Prefecture’s Nebuta Festival often begins during the Setsubun period, which includes the first day of spring, when the bright lights of the Nebuta festival dispel the darkness of winter and bring vibrancy. When I visited this festival, I could feel the people’s wishes for spring, accompanied by the passionate sound of drums that warmed my cold body.

Traditions and new initiatives in the Kanto region

In Tokyo and its surrounding areas, the traditional customs of Setsubun and the first day of spring still remain strong. At Sensoji Temple, a large-scale bean-throwing event is held on Setsubun, where many people pray for health and happiness. Also, recently, events and seminars proposing new lifestyles are sometimes held in urban areas on the first day of spring. At the Spring Yoga Festival that I attended, there were many activities to share New Year’s resolutions and refresh the mind and body for spring.

The first day of spring and food culture in western Japan

On the other hand, in western Japan, the customs of the first day of spring are closely related to food culture. Especially in the Kansai region, the custom of eating “Spring Nanakusa Gayu” is deep-rooted, and it is valued as a way to manage your health as you welcome the new season. The Nanakusa porridge that I experienced in Kyoto was a beautiful dish that evoked the breath of spring with the delicate flavors of each grass.

The first day of spring and the fusion of nature in the Kyushu region

In Kyushu, the first day of spring is especially recognized as a time to feel one with nature. This time of year, when plum trees begin to bloom in a warm climate, is an important time for people involved in agriculture. When I visited a rural village in Kumamoto Prefecture, I witnessed the first day of spring and the sight of farmers starting to sow spring vegetables. The warmth that came from my hands as they touched the soil seemed to herald the arrival of spring.

The customs of the first day of spring, which differ from region to region, are a result of the region’s climate, history, and culture. These traditions have been firmly passed down to the present day, adding color to people’s lives in new ways. In the next part, we will explore how the customs of the first day of spring have influenced the present day. Using specific examples, we will explore the role of the first day of spring in modern society.

The influence of the customs of the first day of spring on modern times

Taking the first day of spring as an example, we can make some interesting discoveries about how ancient customs are integrated into today’s Japanese life. While retaining its traditional meaning, the customs of the first day of spring have evolved to suit modern lifestyles. Let’s take a look at its modern influences.

The first day of spring and increased health awareness

The first day of spring marks the beginning of a new season and is considered a perfect opportunity to review your health and lifestyle habits. For example, many products aimed at detoxification and internal organ health are on the market at this time of year. At a famous department store in Tokyo that I visited, a special corner was set up for the first day of spring, featuring healthy ingredients and health goods. Additionally, the number of people undergoing health checkups is increasing with the first day of spring, and it seems that hospitals and clinics tend to have a high volume of reservations at this time of year.

Lifestyle suggestions to get ahead of spring

There are also movements in the fashion and interior design industries to utilize the first day of spring for marketing. For example, the apparel brand “United Arrows” displays new products in spring-like colors and materials in stores ahead of the first day of spring, stimulating customers’ desire to purchase. When I actually visited the shop, the window display that heralded the beginning of a new season caught my eye. By acquiring new items at this time of year, consumers seem to be able to make a fresh start and feel the arrival of spring.

The first day of spring and ecology

Furthermore, the first day of spring also serves as an opportunity to raise awareness of the natural environment. For example, this is the time when events promoting recycling and upcycling are held all over the country. The environmental NGO Greenpeace is taking the first day of spring as an opportunity to launch a campaign proposing a lifestyle that is kind to nature, and is gaining a lot of support. The workshop I attended introduced ideas for reusing things and enjoying the change of seasons by making handmade spring decorations using old clothes.

Local community and the first day of spring

The first day of spring also plays a role in revitalizing local communities. This is a place where locals and visitors can deepen their interactions through local spring events. In a certain town in Kyushu that I have experienced, a town revitalization event is held on the first day of spring, and a festival featuring local specialties is an annual tradition.

These modern influences show that the customs of the first day of spring are not only ancient events, but also continue to have meaning for people today. In the next part, we will introduce the actual results that these customs and modern initiatives related to the first day of spring are bringing to our lives, along with numerical data.

Customs of the first day of spring and the achievements of modern society

The tradition of the first day of spring has achieved certain results even in modern society. Through statistical data and market research, we explore how these customs influence our lives and the economy.

Positive impact on the health industry

The heightened awareness of health during the spring season is clearly reflected in sales in the health industry. According to 2023 data released by the Japan Supplement Association, sales of health foods and supplements increased by about 15% compared to the previous month in February, around the first day of spring. At this time of year, products with the theme of “spring detox” are gaining popularity, and many consumers seem to be conscious of their inner health in preparation for the new season.

spring fashion trends set

The fashion industry’s marketing strategies that incorporate the first day of spring are having a significant impact on consumer purchasing behavior. According to a report by a fashion market research company, sales in the apparel industry are up by more than 10% on average in February due to the early rollout of spring collections. In addition, the collection with the theme of the first day of spring is often shared on social media and is a hot topic, especially among young people.

Improving ecological awareness and concrete results

Recycling-related activities also become active during the first spring, when people’s awareness of ecology increases. According to recycling-related data released by the Ministry of the Environment, it is reported that campaigns held around the first day of spring increase the amount of recycled items collected by about 5% annually. In particular, surveys show that approximately 80% of participants at community-sponsored recycling events are aware of the customs of the first day of spring, indicating that tradition and awareness of environmental protection are linked.

Contributing to the local economy

The first day of spring also plays a role in revitalizing local communities, and local festivals and events in particular are directly linked to economic results. According to a study by the Japan Tourism Agency, local events held at the change of seasons, including the first day of spring, increase the occupancy rate of lodging facilities in the surrounding area by an average of 20%, and sales of local specialties increase by about 30%. Masu. At the local festivals I visited, I saw that local people came together to celebrate the first day of spring, which led to an increase in the number of tourists.

Modern society’s efforts to incorporate the customs of the first day of spring are actually producing results in many areas such as health, fashion, environmental protection, and local economies. These examples demonstrate the importance of keeping tradition alive in the modern world and linking it to society and the economy. next time In my conclusion and thoughts, I would like to delve a little deeper into the richness that the customs of the first day of spring bring to our lives, and the significance of passing them on.

Summary and thoughts

The first day of spring is a special time that heralds a new beginning, even among the various seasons that color Japan’s four seasons. Through this blog, I have reconfirmed that old customs have not faded, have found their significance even in modern society, and are rooted in our lives in various ways.

We have seen how the tradition of the first day of spring has been incorporated into modern culture and economic activity, producing concrete results in a wide variety of fields such as the health industry, the fashion industry, eco-activities, and local economies. These examples teach us how important it is to be flexible and adapt to the times while valuing tradition.

Speaking from my own experience of traveling through Japan’s 47 prefectures, I feel that the beginning of spring is not just a calendar break, but is deeply connected to the rhythm of Japanese life and the movement of the heart. From the quiet anticipation of Hokkaido in the north waiting for the snow to melt, to the warm winds in Okinawa in the south heralding early spring, the first day of spring reflects the unique characteristics of each region and makes us feel the arrival of a new season.

By reflecting on the first day of spring, we can have a moment of sincere gratitude for the cycles of nature and the wisdom of our ancestors, which is extremely valuable even in today’s busy society. Through this age-old seasonal tradition, we can feel the change of the seasons with a fresh mind while staying close to our daily lives.

Finally, the first day of spring is not just a change of seasons for us, but also a time that gives us an important opportunity to face ourselves and take a new step. I realized once again that we have a responsibility to continue to enjoy the richness of the four seasons and pass on their splendor to the next generation, while valuing the customs passed down in each region and finding their meaning. Celebrating the first day of spring is an act of respecting nature, loving Japanese culture, and connecting it to the future.

Kasumi point

Each region of Japan has its own customs and events related to the first day of spring, each of which strongly reflects the culture and history of the region. Below, we will introduce the characteristics of the first day of spring by prefecture as “Kasumi Points”.

Hokkaido (Sapporo City): Snow Festival and First Spring

Kasumi Point: In Hokkaido, the Sapporo Snow Festival is held to coincide with the first day of spring. Because the first day of spring and the snow festival coincide, there is a unique culture in which people look forward to the arrival of spring while still enjoying the final festivities in the cold of winter. The moment you feel the new season amidst the winter scenery is a special experience that can only be experienced in the northern lands.

Miyagi Prefecture (Sendai City): Setsubun Spring Festival

Kasumi Point: The “Setsubun Risshun Taisai” is held grandly at Aoba Shrine on Mt. Aoba in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture. The day before the first day of spring, bean-throwing is held on Setsubun, and the next day, the first day of spring, a festival is held to celebrate the arrival of spring. This series of events is rooted in folk beliefs that have been held since ancient times to overcome the harsh winters of the Tohoku region and wish for a bountiful harvest and good health in the new year.

Kyoto Prefecture (Kyoto City): Toji Temple Spring Morning Market

Kasumi Point: At Toji Temple in Kyoto, a special market called “Risshun Morning Market” is held on the first day of spring. This market, which heralds the arrival of spring, is crowded with people as lucky charms, plants, and seasonal spring ingredients are sold. The custom unique to Kyoto of wishing for good luck for the year by displaying the “auspicious items” sold here in your home continues to this day.

Okinawa Prefecture (Naha City): Spring Hari

Kasumi Point: On the first day of spring, traditional “Hari” (sea rituals) are held in various parts of Okinawa Prefecture. This is a ritual to pray for safe fishing and a big catch, and to purify ships going out to sea. Hari, the first day of spring, is an important ritual to pray to the sea god for safety and prosperity in the new year, and it is a strong expression of Okinawan culture, which has a close relationship with the sea.

Ishikawa Prefecture (Kanazawa City): Hyakumangoku procession and first day of spring

Kasumi Point: In Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, an event called “Hyakumangoku Parade” is sometimes held on the first day of spring. This is an event to remember Kanazawa’s history, and a procession that recreates the glorious days of the Kaga clan parades through the city. Seeing this on the first day of spring is a special experience where you can feel the culture of historic Kanazawa first hand.

These “Kasumi Points” provide a glimpse of how the first season of spring is celebrated across Japan, and how local customs and events have been formed. One of the great joys of traveling is learning how each region’s climate and culture is expressed through sokki, and how it has been passed down to the present day.