This week is Haru no Higan, which is a seven day period celebrating Spring Equinox. On this particular day, Shunbun no hi, there is equal time of night and day, meaning the beginning of change. This is a very Buddhist concept and has been a long held tradition in Japan. “According to Buddhist tradition, Higan means “other shore” and refers to the belief that between this life and the next the dead must cross a great river to gain enlightenment and enter nirvana. This happens again during fall of course.
This is also the start of Sakura season which can go from now until the beginning of May!
In celebration of Haru no Higan and Sakura season, I will be focusing on embracing nature. Take time to celebrate your surroundings and enhance your life! Spring time is the best time for changes, especially in Japan. It’s time to clean, grow, and celebrate life and death!
Not familiar with Haru no Higan? I wasn’t either to be perfectly honest, but after reading a little bit about it I found a new appreciation for Spring. It’s very typical of me to hate Spring, mostly because allergies are starting up again, but it can’t be helped. Here are some articles that you might find interesting to explain this seven day celebration.
Celebrating Shunbun No Hi in Japan
Vernal Equinox Japanese Holidays
Japanese Customs: Vernal Equinox Day
The Significance of the Cherry Blossom: From Beloved Tree to Cultural Icon