Winter is characterized by extreme temperature differences.
And the signs of spring are beginning to appear.
This time we will talk about Risshun , the first season of the 24 solar terms .
What is Risshun?
The beginning of spring refers to the period from February 4th to February 18th.
In the old calendar, it is considered the beginning of the year, and seasonal events begin on the day of spring.
It is also the first day of spring.
Although it's still cold, signs of spring are beginning to appear.
Apparently there is a way to roughly estimate when cherry blossoms will bloom.
Apparently the guideline is that the total maximum temperature from the beginning of spring will be 540 degrees, but what about this year?
Foods for the Beginning of Spring
Butterbur and herring are in season at this time of year.
Butterbur, the first to signal the arrival of spring, is in season from February to March and is recommended for use in tempura or salads.
Herring is also known as the "spring messenger fish," and is a fish that announces the arrival of spring from the sea. We recommend grilling it with salt or simmering it.
Flowers of the Beginning of Spring
Plum blossoms begin to bloom around the time of the beginning of spring.
This flower heralds the arrival of spring as it moves north across Japan from late January to May.
" Jinchoge" is also known as one of the three major fragrant woods .
The name "Jinchouka" comes from the fact that the scent of the flowers is similar to that of agarwood, and the flowers are ten-o'clock shaped and resemble cloves.
You can enjoy it from after the beginning of spring through April.
What you want to eat on the first day of spring: "Risshun XX!"
Risshun tofu
White tofu is said to ward off evil spirits.
It is said that it is best to eat it while it is still white.
Enjoy it as is or with salt.
spring water
This is the first water to be prepared on the morning of the first day of spring.
It is said that if you offer the water you have prepared first thing in the morning to the Shinto altar, then drink it or use it in cooking, it will ward off evil spirits for the year.
Fresh sweets for the beginning of spring
Fresh sweets made on the morning of the first day of spring.
It is said that it is best to eat it on the same day.
First Day of Spring Daifuku
The red beans inside the daifuku are said to ward off impurities and to bring great fortune, so it is said to be good to eat them.
72nd generation
- East Wind Thawing (Harukaze Koori wo Toku) The east wind begins to melt the thick ice.
- The nightingale begins to sing in the mountain village.
- Fish jumping out from between the cracks in the ice (Uokoori wo izuru)
*The 72 seasonal divisions (shichijunikou) are a system of representing the seasons devised in ancient China. They refer to the 24 solar terms further divided into three periods of approximately 5 days each.
Author: Sekido Edited by: Yui and Kambara
