Spring Festivals & Traditions in Japan

Experience the unique blend of spiritual significance, family gatherings, and outdoor festivities during Japan's spring season. From cherry blossom festivals and Buddhist rituals to vibrant cultural events, there are many ways to celebrate spring and discover the beauty of Japanese traditions.

Setsubun, a tradition that started during the Heian period, is celebrated every first week of February to usher in good fortune and ward off evil spirits for the new season.  This remains one of Japan's most treasured cultural traditions. Some of the rituals practiced by the Japanese people at the start of the new season include:

• Mamemaki: The oldest male member of the household, or someone born in the year's zodiac animal sign, throws beans while chanting to drive away evil spirits and invite good luck.  People then eat the same number of beans as their age plus one for good health and longevity.
• Ehoumaki: Eating the ehoumaki (lucky sushi roll) in silence is believed to bring good luck for the year.
• Temple visits and celebrations:  Many locals visit temples to observe mamemaki ceremonies.

Hinamatsuri, also referred to as Doll's Day or Girl's Day, is celebrated annually on March 3rd. This Japanese festival honors daughters by showcasing 'Hina Dolls,' which are sets of emperors and empresses adorned in exquisite kimono. These dolls symbolize cherished memories and the advent of spring. Families also partake in traditional dishes like chirashizushi (mixed rice with various toppings), hishimochi (rice cakes), and Yamaguchi clam soup.

In Japan, the arrival of cherry blossoms is celebrated with Hanami, a tradition of viewing and appreciating the blossoms. Families and friends gather under the flowering trees for picnics, enjoying traditional Japanese sweets like Daifuku and Yokan. Many cities also organize cherry blossom festivals, featuring food stalls and illuminated sakura trees.

Strawberry picking, also known as ichigogari, is a beloved springtime activity in Japan. Starting in early January, families often visit farms to pick ripe strawberries. The season can last until early May, with some families even traveling to well-known picking locations in the mountains.

In Japan, Higan, a Buddhist memorial service spanning seven days, is observed around both equinoxes. Centered around visiting family graves and offering prayers for deceased loved ones, it also features the consumption of "botamochi", sweet rice-gluten balls. Okinawa observes a similar tradition, "Shiimii", in April and early May. Both equinoxes have been recognized as holidays in Japan for over a millennium, and Higan serves as a reminder for Buddhists to visit temples and remember the departed.

In Japan, Buddha's birthday is celebrated on April 8. Buddhist temples commemorate this day by displaying a statue of Baby Buddha in a small shrine, and visitors pour sweet tea over the statue using a ladle.

The birth of Buddha in Nepal on April 8, 566 B.C., was, according to legend, a wondrous event accompanied by blossoming lotus flowers, singing celestial birds, and perfumed blossoms raining from the sky. This moment is symbolized by the pouring of sweet tea over the statue during the celebration. Buddha's teaching, "Regard yourselves as precious and don't compare yourselves with others; this will help you stay more at ease," is central to the celebration's purpose.

Ukai, a traditional Japanese fishing method using trained birds to catch ayu (sweetfish), dates back to the Heian period. This fascinating spectacle takes place in rivers at night and can be observed in cities such as Gifu and Kyoto from May to October.

Golden Week is one of Japan's busiest holiday seasons, along with New Year and Obon week. It comprises four national holidays within seven days, which, when combined with weekends, results in crowded trains, airports, and popular tourist destinations.  If you're planning to travel during this period, it's crucial to book accommodations in advance.

Spring in Japan is an ideal time to experience the country's rich cultural heritage and explore real estate opportunities. From historic rituals to cherry blossom festivals, Japan's spring traditions offer a unique cultural experience. Whether you're seeking seasonal adventures or looking to invest in property, spring is the perfect season to discover Japan's most scenic locations and real estate offerings.