We all know 4 seasons, spring, summer, autumn and winter.
But in Japan, there’s lot more to feel!
Japan’s deep connection with nature is beautifully encapsulated in its traditional calendar system known as the 24 Solar Terms (Nijūshi Sekki). This ancient framework divides the year into 24 segments, each reflecting subtle shifts in the natural world. Rooted in both Chinese and Japanese traditions, these terms have guided agricultural practices and daily life for centuries.
What Are the 24 Solar Terms?
The 24 Solar Terms mark specific points in the solar year, each lasting about 15 days. They serve as seasonal indicators, aligning human activities with nature’s rhythms. For instance:
- 立春 (Risshun): Beginning of spring
- 夏至 (Geshi): Summer solstice
- 立秋 (Risshū): Beginning of autumn
- 冬至 (Tōji): Winter solstice
These terms not only denote climatic changes but also influence cultural events, festivals, and culinary practices in Japan.
Current Solar Term: 立夏 (Rikka) – The Onset of Summer
As of today, May 12, 2025, Japan is in the midst of 立夏 (Rikka), which commenced on May 5 and will continue until May 20. Rikka signifies the “beginning of summer,” a period when the warmth intensifies, and nature thrives.
During Rikka, the environment undergoes noticeable transformations:
- 蛙始鳴 (Kawazu Hajimete Naku): Frogs begin to croak, signaling the season’s change.
- 蚯蚓出 (Mimizu Izuru): Earthworms surface, indicating the soil’s vitality.
- 竹笋生 (Takenoko Shozu): Bamboo shoots begin to be visible, it’s the season (shun).
These phenomena are part of the 72 micro-seasons (Shichijūni Kō), which further divide the solar terms into approximately five-day segments, capturing the fleeting nuances of nature.
Cultural Significance of Rikka
Rikka holds profound cultural importance in Japan:
- Agriculture: Farmers commence rice planting, aligning with the season’s favorable conditions.
- Tea Culture: The period around Rikka coincides with the first tea harvest, known as 新茶 (Shincha), celebrated for its fresh flavor.
- Festivals: Children’s Day (national holiday) on May 5 marks the start of Rikka, emphasizing growth and well-being. You might notice Koinobori (鯉のぼり, this blog’s image) in people’s houses.
These traditions underscore the harmonious relationship between Japanese society and the natural world.
Reflecting on Nature’s Rhythms
Understanding the 24 Solar Terms offers a window into Japan’s seasonal consciousness. By linking ourselves to these natural cycles, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the environment and its influence on daily life.
In upcoming posts, I’ll delve into how these seasonal markers inspire traditional Japanese recipes and practices, allowing us to experience the essence of each term through taste and tradition.
Have you noticed any seasonal changes in your surroundings lately?
