Konnichiwa!
January has ended, and February has begun.
February is a transitional season between winter and spring.
In Japan, we have 24 seasonal terms based on the lunar calendar, and today, February 3rd, marks the first day of spring, called "Lichun" (立春) or "Risshun" in Japanese.
This means we can say, "Spring has already begun!"
Although it's still very cold, and the strongest cold wave is coming this week, we can still celebrate the arrival of spring!
Yes, let's welcome spring with joy! 🌸
...Sorry, my OCD/ADHD kicked in. 😅
A long time ago, the Japanese New Year used to start on this day.
The day before Risshun is called "Setsubun" (節分).
On Setsubun, many Japanese people eat a sushi roll called "Ehomaki."
"Eho" (恵方) means "lucky direction," and "maki" (巻き) means "roll."
It is believed to bring good fortune if eaten while facing the lucky direction of the year.
People also throw roasted soybeans to pray for a good year and to drive away evil spirits.
Many fathers dress up as "oni" (demons), and children throw beans at them while shouting:
"Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" ("Demons out! Good fortune in!")
Since Risshun follows the lunar calendar, the date changes every year.
Sometimes, there is no Risshun in a particular year in China.
In traditional beliefs, a year without Risshun is considered unlucky for marriage.
So, if you're planning to get married, you might want to check whether Risshun falls within that year or not!
****************************************************
Starting Special Promotion
"Biginning of the Spring"
Don't miss our special promotion!
Check out our special promotion page now!
****************************************************