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Shunbun no Hi “Vernal Equinox Day”. March 20-21. Shunbun no Hi wa itsu desu ka? “When is Vernal Equinox Day?”. This holiday is celebrated on March 20 or 21, a day where the sun crosses the equator making night and day equal in length. Shunbun no Hi wa nandesu ka? “What is Vernal Equinox Day?”.
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Shunbun no Hi“Vernal Equinox Day” March 20-21
Shunbun no Hi wa itsu desu ka?“When is Vernal Equinox Day?” • This holiday is celebrated on March 20 or 21, a day where the sun crosses the equator making night and day equal in length.
Shunbun no Hi wa nandesu ka?“What is Vernal Equinox Day?” • This holiday celebrates nature, and is used to show appreciation for all living things.
How long is this celebration? • This holiday is generally celebrated for a seven day period. • It starts three days prior to Vernal Equinox Day, and ends three days after. • That period of time is referred to as “Higan.”
What is done during Higan? • During Higan, people pay respect to their elders. • Family graves are often visited during this time, where family members offer flowers, food, drink, and incense to consoletheir ancestors spirits.
Special Foods • Some people offer food to their friends, family, and neighbors; although giving food is not a traditional part of Shunbun no Hi. • The most common foodgiven is botomochi, which is soft rice covered with sweetened bean paste.
History of Shunbun no Hi • Although the precise origin of this holiday is unknown, Shunbun no Hi became a popular celebration in the 18th century. • Around that time, the emperor issued an ordinance notifying the importance of this holiday.
History (continued) • During the Meiji Era (1868-1912) the government made this celebration a national holiday.
Folklore about Shunbun no Hi • There are stories related to Buddhism about this holiday. • It is said that on the equinox, Buddha will appear on Earth to save stray souls and help them during their crossing to the after life. • It is also said that after the equinox occurs, the chill of winter disappears and cherry blossoms will begin to grow.