Usui is one of the 24 solar terms in the traditional Japanese calendar, marking the transition from winter to spring. It typically falls between February 18 and March 4. During this period, snow decreases, rain increases, and temperatures rise. As a result, the accumulated snow melts into water, giving the term "Usui" its name. This time is also significant for the preparation of spring agricultural activities, characterized by snowmelt, rising temperatures, and increased rainfall.
During Usui, several traditional events and customs take place. Notable ones include
Hatsuuma, where people visit Inari shrines to pray for a good harvest and family safety, and
Hinamatsuri, where families begin preparing to display hina dolls for the Girls' Festival on March 3. Other customs include tilling fields and planting seeds in preparation for farming, and repairing house roofs before the spring rains. Additionally, there is a custom of cutting down old bamboo and planting new ones to symbolize the arrival of spring.
Different regions have unique events during Usui. For example, in Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture, the
Suitengu Festival is held to thank the water deity and pray for a good harvest. In Hokkaido, the
Snow Festivals feature beautiful ice sculptures and attract many tourists. In Shimane Prefecture,
Kagura dance performances are held at shrines to honor the gods and pray for a good harvest.
These events allow people to feel the arrival of spring and enjoy the changes in nature and traditional culture.
国防権限法の概要
