Shunbun no Hi Vernal Equinox Day

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Shunbun no Hi Vernal Equinox Day

• March 20-21

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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History (continued)

• During the Meiji Era (1868-1912) the government
  made this celebration a national holiday.

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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.

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THE END!