Understanding Nijushi-sekki and Shichijuni-kou: Japan’s Ancient System of Seasonal Divisions
In Japan, there is a traditional way of dividing the year called "Nijushi-sekki" (the 24 solar terms) and "Shichijuni-kou" (the 72 microseasons). These terms divide the year into smaller periods based on changes in nature. Nijushi-sekki divides the four seasons into six parts, making a total of 24 terms throughout the year. Each of these 24 terms is further divided into three periods of about five days, giving us the 72 microseasons.
For example, the start of autumn is marked by Risshu (the beginning of autumn), winter begins with Ritto, spring with Risshun, and summer with Rikka. In 2024, Risshu fell on August 7, which still feels more like summer. On the other hand, the Shubun (Autumnal Equinox) on September 22 aligns more with the seasonal transition from summer to autumn.
Shubun and Shunbun: Japan's Equinox Holidays with Equal Day and Night
Japan also has Shunbun (Spring Equinox), which mirrors Shubun (Autumnal Equinox). On both of these days, the length of day and night is nearly equal. Interestingly, both the Shubun (Autumnal Equinox) and Shunbun (Spring Equinox) are public holidays in Japan, making them even more significant.
What Are the Autumnal and Spring Equinoxes About?
In Japan, Shubun is a time to honor ancestors and remember those who have passed, while Shunbun is a day to celebrate nature and show respect for all living things. Historically, these days were tied to Imperial rites known as Shuki Kōreisai and Shunki Kōreisai, during which families would honor their ancestors and give thanks for the autumn harvest in autumn, or pray for a bountiful harvest in spring. This practice reflects Japan’s agrarian roots.
For Japanese people, these holidays are very familiar seasonal markers because of their cultural and spiritual importance.
What Is "Ohigan" around Shubun (Autumnal Equinox)?
The seven days surrounding both equinoxes (three days before and after) are called Ohigan. During this period, people visit graves and offer prayers and offerings for their ancestors. In 2024, Ohigan is around Shubun (Autumnal Equinox) between September 19 and September 25.
Ohagi: Traditional Sweets of the Shubun (Autumnal Equinox)
One traditional food associated with Ohigan is Ohagi, a sweet made from sticky rice coated with Anko (sweet red bean paste). This custom is said to have started in the Heian period (794-1185). The red color of the beans is believed to ward off evil spirits, much like how Sekihan (red rice) is eaten on Hare (auspicious occasions) in Japan.
In spring, a similar sweet called Botamochi is offered. Both are essentially the same, but the key difference is that Ohagi in autumn uses coarse anko, while Botamochi in spring uses smooth anko. Their names reflect seasonal flowers: Ohagi is named after hagi (Japanese bush clover), and Botamochi is named after botan (peony).
The Significance of Ohagi and Wagashi in Japanese Culture
During the autumn Ohigan, you’ll find Ohagi in wagashi shops across Japan. While Ohagi is a familiar sweet to most Japanese people, it might not leave much of an impression on foreign visitors because of its plain appearance. However, Ohagi is rich in cultural significance. It embodies Japan’s appreciation for the seasons, gratitude for the autumn harvest, the ritual of honoring ancestors, and the symbolism of red beans used to repel evil.
For those wanting a deeper understanding of Japan’s food culture, I recommend tasting Ohagi and participating in a wagashi-making class. At Baika-tei, a famous wagashi shop in Tokyo’s Kagurazaka, you can experience making elegant wagashi sweets firsthand. By comparing the simple appearance of Ohagi with the refined beauty of traditional wagashi, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Japan’s rich food culture. Japanese cuisine goes beyond just sushi and tempura!
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How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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