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#155

Vernal Equinox Day in Japan : A Season of Balance & New Beginnings

by Rachel Anne

If you’re living in Japan, napapansin mo siguro na ang Vernal Equinox Day (春分の日 / Shunbun no Hi) is a national holiday usually observed every March 20 or 21. Pero beyond the day off, ano nga ba talaga ang meaning nito?

Let’s talk about why this day is more than just pahinga—it’s about nature, tradition, and reflection.

What Is Vernal Equinox Day?

Vernal Equinox marks the time when day and night are almost equal in length. Ibig sabihin, officially start na ng spring sa Japan!

In a country that truly values the four seasons, this moment is symbolic. Spring represents renewal, hope, and fresh beginnings—parang reset button after the long winter.

A Time for Family & Reflection (Ohigan)

This holiday is closely connected to the Buddhist tradition called Ohigan (お彼岸).

During this period, many Japanese families :

Visit ancestral graves
Clean tombstones
Offer flowers and incense
Pray for their departed loved ones

It’s a quiet but meaningful time. If you pass by cemeteries during this holiday, mapapansin mo ang daming fresh flowers—simple yet heartfelt.

Parang reminder siya to pause, remember, and give thanks.

Seasonal Treat : Botamochi

One traditional food during this season is botamochi—sweet rice balls coated with red bean paste.

Fun fact :

Spring version = botamochi (named after botan/peony flower)
Autumn version = ohagi

Same snack, different seasonal name. Very Japan, diba?

Around this time, cherry blossoms slowly begin blooming depending on the region. In cities like Tokyo, sakura forecast becomes daily news—parang weather update but make it aesthetic.

For many OFWs and foreigners in Japan, Vernal Equinox feels like :

Finally, tapos na ang winter
Hello allergy season (kafunsho warriors, laban)
Start na ng hanami plans
Gentle reminder that life moves forward

Why It Matters

Unlike other loud and festive holidays, Vernal Equinox Day is quiet and reflective.

It symbolizes balance :

Light and darkness
Life and remembrance
Endings and new beginnings

It’s the perfect time to reflect :

Kamusta ang goals mo this year?
Ano ang kailangan mong i-let go?
Ano ang gusto mong simulan this spring?

Living in Japan means experiencing traditions that beautifully connect nature with daily life. Vernal Equinox Day isn’t just a public holiday—it’s a reminder that even in a busy world, balance is possible.

So whether you’re :