Tag: Kagurazaka Walking Tour

Do you know 24 sekki (Solar Terms) and 72 kō (Micro-seasons)?   Understanding Japan’s Seasonal Rhythm: The 24 Solar Terms and 72 Micro-seasons In Japan, there is a unique way of dividing the seasons called the “24 Solar Terms and 72 Micro-seasons.” This traditional Japanese calendar divides the year into 24 segments, known as Solar Terms, and further into 72 smaller periods, called Micro-seasons. Each of the 24 Solar Terms reflects the season and is divided into three Micro-seasons, each lasting about five days, resulting in a total of 72 divisions throughout the year.  Terms like “Risshun” (the beginning of spring), “Shunbun” (the vernal equinox), “Geshi” (the summer solstice), and “Risshu” (the beginning of autumn) are well-known among the Japanese people. Risshu and the 72 Micro-seasons Although we are still experiencing scorching heat every day, “Risshu” (the beginning of autumn) actually started on August 7th. According to the 72 Micro-seasons, Risshu is divided into the following three periods:  “Suzukaze Itaru” (涼風至): The cool breeze begins to blow. “Kansen Naku” (寒蝉鳴): The cicadas start to sing. “Fukaki Kiri Matou” (蒙霧升降): Thick fog begins to rise. The Upcoming “Shosho” Period Next, we have the “Shosho” period, which marks the time when theread moreDo you know 24 sekki (Solar Terms) and 72 kō (Micro-seasons)?