Just as people flock to Japan and Washington D.C. during Cherry Blossom season, Mexico City’s Jacaranda trees are a huge draw for locals and tourists. And yet, to my surprise, tourists here haven’t completely taken over and ruined the views. Like is sometimes in the case for Cherry Blossoms. You can still find so many stunning locations in Mexico City painted with these brilliant blossoms that aren’t packed with tourists. To have a picnic under the trees you don’t have to feel like you’re fighting through the crowds. The Jacaranda trees of Mexico City are still one of the most underestimated Springtime sights around the world. And something you need to see on your next trip to Mexico City. While the Jacaranda trees in Mexico City are spread out all over I’ve listed below my favourite spots to visit to see these spectacular saplings.

Table Of Contents

1. The History of the Jacaranda Trees
2. When To See Them
3. Best Jacaranda Trees in Mexico City
   • Bosque de Chapultepec / Chapultepec Castle
   • Paseo de la Reforma
   • Sofitel Hotel Cityzen Bar
   • Plaza de la República
   • Alameda Central
   • Cafe don Porfirio
   • Alameda de Santa María
   • Avenida Cicerón
   • Avenida Horacio
   • Lope de Vega
   • Soumaya Museum
   • Fuente de Cibeles
   • Casa Jacaranda
   • Parque México
   • Avenida Veracruz
   • UNAM
   • Avenida Francisco Sosa
   • Panteón de Dolores

The History of the Jacaranda Trees

While you might think these iconic trees are native to Mexico, the trees were actually brought in from Brazil. The story of how the Jacaranda trees in Mexico City arrived here is a fascinating tale. In 1896, Japanese immigrant Tatsugoro Matsumoto was sent to Mexico City to work for President Porfirio Díaz. Matsumoto had come to Mexico City to forge a friendship between Japan and Mexico. He had previously worked in Peru for their government and there, he had made a name for himself. Díaz was looking for a landscape architect to jazz up the forests around his residence inside Chapultapec Castle.

Matsumoto and the Jacarandas

The most obvious choice for a tree that symbolized friendship between Japan and Mexico would have been the sakura or cherry blossom tree. But the high altitude and weather in Mexico City didn’t suit the sensitive blossom. So instead, Matsumoto came up with the idea of importing the Jacaranda tree from Brazil. It had the same effect as the cherry blossom, with a springtime bloom that washed the city in bright colours. Seemingly changing the landscape of the city during those precious few springtime months. President Porfirio Díaz was so impressed by the trees he asked they be planted all over the city!

Matsumoto began working on transforming the city in 1920. He started on the main avenues that spread out from Chapultapec Castle. You can still see the oldest, original Jacaranda trees Matsumoto planted along the Paseo de la Reforma. During his time working on the Jacaranda trees in Mexico City, Matsumoto fell in love with the city. He found the colonial architecture where he lived in the Roma neighbourhood absolutely entrancing. When he went back to Japan after his contract was over it wasn’t to return home. It was to collect his wife and bring her to Mexico City where they would live out the rest of their lives. Matsumoto died in Mexico City, in 1955 at the age of 95.

But the trees live on in his memory, their yearly blossoming a welcome sign of the end of winter. In Japan, they call celebrations under the cherry blossom trees hanami (‘flower watching’ parties.) The same kind of celebrations occurs in Mexico City when the jacaranda blooms. A true symbol of the lasting connections between Japan, Mexico City and, of course, the great landscape architect Matsumoto.

When To See Them

Jacaranda trees are in full bloom from mid-March to April. And they’re at their best in the latter part of that period. During this time, the trees burst into life, and their purple flowers provide a lovely contrast against the crowded, urban cityscape. My favourite time of year is when the blooms start to fall and caress the ground. There is something so magical about sitting in a park and watching the blossoms fall like drops of rain. Despite all the street sweepers, there is almost always a carpet of blossoms everywhere you go underneath the trees. Some people call this the “Mexican winter.” It’s a time where the city sheds its old skin, getting ready for new growth.

Many of the city’s most popular areas where you’ll find the Jacaranda trees get very busy. Especially in the afternoon. Plan to arrive early in the morning to get the best chance at having a peaceful walk through the trees.

It is no secret that spring is a popular time of the year to visit Mexico City. Be sure to book hotels in advance! This will ensure you don’t miss out on staying somewhere you had your heart set on. Check out our blog post all about the best neighbourhoods to stay in Mexico City! The Easter holidays are one of the busiest times of the year. Easter is a holy holiday for the Mexican people. Plan accordingly or try to avoid Easter weekend to miss the large crowds.

Best Jacaranda Trees in Mexico City

Bosque de Chapultepec / Chapultepec Castle

The best place to start your tour of the Jacaranda Trees in Mexico City is where the first tree was planted; Chapultepec Castle. Here you can see the original jacaranda trees planted for President Díaz Ordaz. As you walk up the winding road towards the castle, Jacaranda trees pop up as you begin to near the entrance. Standing on the balcony of the castle you can look out over the park to see all the blooming trees below.

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If you don’t want to pay to visit the Castle itself, located at the top of the hill, you can wander the immense Bosque de Chapultepec or Chapultapec Forest that surrounds the castle. The forest is spread out over 1,600 acres, and you can spot different formations of beautiful trees throughout. One of my favourite things to do is take a boat out on Chapultepec Lake, where you can see the purple Jacaranda trees wrapping around the lake like a colourful hug.

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The largest confluence of the trees can be found in the western part of the park called the Lago de Chapultepec 2a Seccion. This part of the forest is enormous and very spread out. Luckily you can hop on a rental bike or scooter to make your way around quickly and efficiently. I would highly recommend this because it’s so much fun and allows you to explore the entirety of this enormous green space.

Paseo de la Reforma

The most famous place to see the Jacaranda trees in full bloom is along Paseo de la Reforma. This is truly one of the most beautiful boulevards in the world during the springtime. The Jacaranda trees line either side of the broad avenue, creating a cascade of purple all down the road.

Take advantage of their vehicle-free Sundays when all cars are barred from the roads and pedestrians and cyclists take over the streets! You can peacefully walk along the avenues, rent a bike and take in the sights. All the while enjoying all the fantastic street vendors and artisans that pop up along the street.

Sofitel Hotel Cityzen Bar

The luxurious Cityzen Bar, found on the top of the Sofitel Hotel, is a fantastic spot to sit and enjoy a view of the city from above. During the springtime, when the purple jacaranda trees colour the streets, there is no better to enjoy a cocktail complete with a view! Cityzen Bar looks out over the iconic Angel of Independence statue always encircled by blooming jacaranda trees. Although the restaurant bar is relatively expensive, (cocktails costing about $13-$15) the view is priceless!

The restaurant is open from Monday to Friday from 1:00 pm to 1:00 am and also on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 am to 12:00 am. Reservations are available only for breakfasts, on Saturdays and Sundays. I would highly recommend getting a brunch reservation to see these trees in the daylight!

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Plaza de la República

Just west of the Paseo de la Reforma is the grandiose Plaza de la República. The beautiful arched Monument to the Revolution towers over the plaza. The eyes of the statues surrounding the dome look over at the blooming jacarandas. The monument also functions as a mausoleum for the heroes of the Mexican Revolution of 1910. Several Jacaranda trees were planted in the surrounding garden quadrants. Each one springing to life with vibrant petals come the middle of March.

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Alameda Central

Alameda Central is one of the most famous parks in Mexico City and probably the most popular Jacaranda viewing spot. It has been a gathering place for locals for hundreds of years. The park was built in 1592 under the order of Viceroy Luis de Velasco II. It is now considered the oldest public park in the Americas. But long before it was a public city park, the area was an essential site for the Aztec community. It was here where they held their enormous marketplace long before Spanish colonization. Visiting this place is truly like stepping on the cobblestones of Aztec Mexico City.

Alameda is from the Spanish word “álamo,” which means “grove of poplars.” Sadly, the poplar trees that were once spread out through the park do not remain today. Today, the trees have been replaced by ash, chestnut and willow trees. But in addition to those trees, the park is also home to dozens of Jacaranda trees. They pop their heads out over the top of the various pathways around the park. And most impressively, the tree surrounding the Palacio de Bellas Artes and Parisian metro sign make for fantastic photo ops.

Cafe don Porfirio

Across the street from Alameda Central is the Sears Centro Historico building. Take the elevator up the eighth floor to visit the stunning Cafe don Porfirio. The cafe has a prime location looking out over the city below. It is the best place to view the Palacio de Bellas Artes. During jacaranda season, you can really see how impressive the trees are from above. The drinks in the cafe are exceptionally well priced. But be sure to arrive early as there isn’t a lot of seating on the popular rooftop deck.

Alameda de Santa María

In the Cuauhtémoc borough, to the north of the historic centre, is the Colonia Santa María la Ribera. This area is one of twenty neighbourhoods in Mexico City designated as “Barrios Mágicos” or “magical neighbourhoods.” The central meeting point for locals and tourists is the Alameda de Santa María la Ribera. In the centre of this bustling park is the famous Morisco Kiosk. The Morisco Kiosk was built by José Ramón Ibarrola for the Mexico Pavilion at the 1884 World’s Fair. Located in New Orleans, after the fair was over, the Kiosk was brought back to Mexico City in 1903. It was placed here in the park to attract more residents to the neighbourhood. Surrounding the brightly coloured Pavillion are dozens of Jacaranda trees. The trees really pop against the Kiosk’s red paint and surrounding green parkland.

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Avenida Cicerón

Polanco is one of the most exclusive and luxurious neighbourhoods in Mexico City. Polanco is often called the “Beverly Hills of Mexico” as it’s known for its pristine streets lined with high-end brands. Avenida Cicerón is located in the north-western part of town. Walk along this peaceful, primarily residential avenue to observe the beautiful purple trees.

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Avenida Horacio

Avenida Horacio, particularly the areas around Americas Park, is another spot to find a confluence of Jacaranda trees. The quaint and calming forest that pops up in the middle of the busy street is one of the best places to sit and enjoy a sweet treat. All the while shaded under the floral canopy.

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Lope de Vega

Head towards the small side street of Lope de Vega, between Avenida Homero andAvenida Ejército Nacional Mexicano. Here the Jacaranda trees are so giant they touch each other as they grow over the streets. Creating one of the lushest congregations of the trees anywhere in the city. The road is named after the Spanish writer Lope de Vega. Vega was one of the most prolific authors in the history of Spanish literature.

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Soumaya Museum

The Soumaya Museum is one of the most iconic contemporary pieces of architecture in Mexico City. The building was designed by the Mexican architect Fernando Romero and is covered by 16,000 hexagonal aluminum tiles. Several large Jacaranda trees have been planted outside the building. Their colours reflecting onto the hundreds of mirrored tiles, creating one of the most spectacular views in the city.

Fuente de Cibeles

As you descend from Paseo de la Reforms into Roma Norte, you’ll pass by the Fuente de Cibeles. The Fuente de Cibeles or Fountain of Cybele is a replica of a famous fountain originally sculptured in Madrid, Spain. The fountain was created in 1980 to symbolize and honour the brotherhood between the Spanish and Mexican communities. Even today, it is one of the most beloved sights in the city. The roundabout is surrounded by Jacaranda trees. You’ll notice more of the vibrant blossoms running down each side street that veers off from the central circle. Follow your instincts to discover even more stunning scenes.

Casa Jacaranda

Named after the colossal Jacaranda trees planted outside his family home, Casa Jacaranda is one of the most beautiful slices of Colonial architecture in Mexico City. Chefs Beto and Jorge have lived here for the past few decades. They have both transformed and preserved the history of the house and the incredible Jacaranda trees that decorate their street. If you’re interested in learning more about Mexican food, you need to book yourself a cooking class at Casa Jacaranda. But their classes are more than just a cooking lesson. It’s an entire day-long experience filled with information on Mexican food history, market tours and intimate stories from Beto himself. By the end of the day, dining under the Jacaranda trees, you’ll feel like you have made new friends.

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Parque México

My favourite spot in the entire city is Parque México. There is something so enchanting about this park, nestled away inside the heart of La Condesa. Surrounding the park is the quintessential Avenue Mexico. This large ring road features some of the most prolific Art Deco architecture found anywhere in the city.

The park itself feels like a secret garden, with beautiful sculptures, monuments and fascinating landscaping around every corner. During the spring, the outer edges of the park, lined in Jacaranda trees, explode into a ring of colourful blossoms. As the season progresses, the petals fall down onto the street and cover the roads like a purple blanket.

It is most definitely one of the most densely packed areas to find Jacaranda trees anywhere in the city. Plus, the peaceful atmosphere of the park makes it the ideal place for a picnic. There are dozens of fantastic takeaway shops around the park, my favourite being El Moro Churreria. Or just grab a cup of fruit or hot elote (corn) from a street vendor. The perfect way to enjoy a tranquil afternoon under the trees.

Avenida Veracruz

Just up the street from the Parque México, standing on the edge of Parque España, is the Avenida Veracruz. Avenida Veracruz is perhaps the most famous side street for seeing the Jacaranda trees. The density of trees means the street almost vibrates with colour. Look on google satellite street view and you can actually see the trees from high above. I love walking along this avenue to spot the incredible art deco architecture. And there are dozens of old manors and mansions featuring some of the best examples of antique Talavera tiles. But when the Jacaranda bloom they are the star of the show. And all the beautiful houses fade in the background against the beauty of these out-of-this-world blossoms.

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UNAM

If you’re a fan of incredible architecture and unique gardens, it’s worth the trip to UNAM (National Autonomous University of Mexico). The university is surrounded by an impressive spread of green spaces and Mesoamerican-inspired building designs. The streets and pathways are lined with blossoming jacarandas in the springtime. But as they are spread out across the vast campus, it is a bit of a scavenger hunt to find them all.

To find a sure-fire spot, head over to the UNAM Botanical Gardens. Here, you’ll find a cluster of Jacaranda trees outside the entrance. The UNAM Botanical Gardens are an incredible way to learn more about the flora and fauna which make Mexico City so unique! So it’s worth a visit all on its own.

Avenida Francisco Sosa

In the south end of Coyoacan, make your way to the Avenida Francisco Sosa. Coyoacan has quickly become my favourite neighbourhood in Mexico City. Although it is found outside of the main city centre, the peaceful pace of life and gorgeous colourful architecture is why I keep coming back. And one of the most exciting streets to wander along is the Avenida Francisco Sosa. Cobblestones still make up the material underfoot as you walk along. The street seems left untouched by the modernity of the ages. Above your head, Jacaranda trees lean in towards you from either side of the street. Creating a canopy of shade above you.

Panteón de Dolores

Tucked away in the west corner of the city is the Panteón de Dolores. ‘Panteón’ is another word for the cemetery. But this one was first created for the illustrious dead of Mexico City. The entombed residents have all contributed to Mexico’s civic, national, and human values.

The gravestones and tombs found here are also some of the most beautifully designed memorials and monuments. I think that the Panteón de Dolores is one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world. And it doesn’t get it’s fair due compared to places like Père Lachaise Cemetery or Highgate in London. But during the springtime, the Jacaranda trees interspersed between the graves make their debut. Their pale purple blossoms gently fall onto the stones below, bringing an added level of beauty and serenity to the sacred space.

Those are all my favourite spots in Mexico City that I visit during the Jacaranda season. There are hundreds of trees found all over the city, so you’re bound to stumble upon your own secret spot. These hidden gems are almost always the most amazing. But this is a good starting list to see the Jacaranda Trees in Mexico City! Let me know in the comments if you have Jacaranda trees in your city.

Happy Travels, Adventurers.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Seeing the Jacaranda Trees in Mexico City first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

What is a Sakura?

Sakura is the Japanese term for cherry blossoms. Unlike other trees, this breed doesn’t produce any fruit but instead blooms into awe-inspiring flowers. These range from deep pink to pale rose. One thing that makes the sakura so unique is that they bloom for only a week or two. I suppose they really represent the idea of “absence makes the heart grow fonder“. Although Japan’s national flower is officially the chrysanthemum, the cherry blossom is seen as their informal national flower.

Symbolism of the Sakura

Japanese people honour the sakura for its short life span as it is thought to remind people how precious life is and to cherish every second you have on this earth because you never know how fleeting life can be. And no matter how short, it is always beautiful. The bloom of the sakura also represents springtime and a new beginning after a long, cold winter. Since the bloom of the sakura generally coincides with the start of the school year, they are also symbols of good luck.

Words to Use During Cherry Blossom Season

Since the popularity of the Sakura has been so prevalent throughout the centuries, Japanese people have developed many special terms for various happenings during the Sakura season. The Japanese language is one of the most poetic in the world. With simple words to describe complex thoughts or sensations. They find words to describe even the most seemingly insignificant things. Here are my favourite words inspired by the beauty of the great Sakura.

Sakura

The word Sakura, as we know, means “cherry blossom.” But the word is actually derived from the word “Saku,” which means to bloom or to smile. And looking at these gorgeous flowers, how can one no smile?!

Sakura Zensen

Blooming Sakuras are considering a weather event in Japan and they call it the sakura zensen or the “cherry blossom front”. The front refers to the advancement of the bloom across the country. It is officially observed by the Japan Meteorological Agency who alerts major new agencies of the changes to broadcast to the public. This process has existed for centuries, as even hundreds of years ago, people were waiting to see the blooms come the springtime.

The season starts in the south in Okinawa around January and slowly moves north as the weather gets warmer. The season generally ends around April. But this schedule can often shift drastically if the weather has either been either unseasonably warm or cold.

Hanami

Every year, people gather in parks underneath the cherry trees to celebrate Sakura season. These are called “hanami” parties. The word “hanami” is made from the word “Hana,” which means flower, and “mi,” which means to watch or view. So literally, it translates to ‘flower watching‘ parties. Because this is such a popular event, parks sometimes require you to reserve your spot in advance. Thousands of people flock to the trees every day to celebrate with friends and family. If you visit Japan during Cherry Blossom season, you must make your way out to have your own hanami. Be sure to stop by a konbini to pick up a few sakura-flavoured items for your picnic!

Hanafubuki

If you’ve ever visited a cherry blossom field, you’ll know that magical moment when the wind blows and the petals from the flowers gently float in the air. This is called Sakura-fubuki, or “cherry blossom snowstorm.”

Sakurabito

Sakurabito was a word developed in the 11th century to describe a person who loves cherry blossoms. You can count me in as a Sakurabito. The word translates in English to “sakura person”.

Hana-yori-dango

Hana-yori-dango is a Japanese proverb used to make fun of people who attend hanami parties just to eat and drink rather than appreciate the beauty of the season. “Dango” is a Japanese sweet, so the word translates to “sweets before flowers.”

Yozakura

Yozakura translates into “Night Sakura”. This the term used to describe the popular pastime of viewing cherry blossoms at night. The city lights continue to illuminate the flowers even after dusk, making them appear to sparkle like tiny stars.

Mankai

Mankai is the word for the sakura’s full bloom. It is appropriate to use this word when around 80% of an orchard’s blossoms have sprouted. This produces a wave of colour across the sky and is one of the best times to see the sakura trees.

Mikkaminumanosakura

Mikkaminumanosakura is a word that means “quick or sudden change“. It is represented by how a Sakura tree can blossom and lose all its petals almost in the blink of an eye.

Ubazakura

Ubazakura is one of my favourite words. It directly translates to “old-woman sakura“. This work is used to describe an older woman who still preserves her beautiful appearance. The idea that beauty can exist without youth.

Asazakura

Asazakura means “Morning Sakura“. Walking first thing in the morning just as the sun comes up, the morning dew clings to the sakura blossoms, making them glimmer with the rising sunlight.

Hanagasumi

Hanagasumi is made up of the words “Hana,” which means flower, and “gasumi,” which implies haze. This is the word used to describe the pale white cherry blossoms. As these trees often cling to the river banks, in the early morning, these white petals look like mist cast across the horizon.

Sakuragari

Visiting Japan in the springtime might mean you are there for “Sakuragari“. Sakuragari is made up of the words “sakura,” which we know and “gari,” which means to hunt. Sakuragari translates to hunting Sakura. This is a term for people who go out around the country to be there to appreciate the beauty of this natural phenomena.

Zanou

Zanou is the perfect word to end off with. It translates to ‘remaining sakura‘ as it is used to speak about the last petal of the season that falls. Once the Zanou falls, it means Spring is over, and summer is just around the corner.

See if you can use these words next time you visit Japan during Sakura Season. The locals always appreciate you learning the language and will be truly in awe if you learn some of these mostly niche words! If you found this post interesting you need to check out Japan’s 72 Microseasons to learn even more about the wonders of the Japanese language.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post The Beautiful Meaning Behind Japan’s Many Words for Cherry Blossoms first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

The divisions originated from the Chinese calendar, which in itself has 24 major categories, starting in Springs in early February. But in Japan, these 24 groups split once more into five-day divisions which, unlike the Chinese calendar, match up more locally with the climate in Japan. These sections were written in 1685 by the astronomer, Shibukawa Shunkai, who presents a poetic journey through life in Japan through their seasons.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, this micro-season calendar is an excellent way to determine when you might want to visit to discover these incredible, natural wonders to explore for yourself.

Table Of Contents

1. 立春 Risshun (Beginning of spring)
2. 雨水 Usui (Rainwater)
3. 啓蟄 Keichitsu (Insects awaken)
4. 春分 Shunbun (Spring equinox)
5. 清明 Seimei (Pure and clear)
6. 穀雨 Kokuu (Grain rains)
7. 立夏 Rikka (Beginning of summer)
8. 小満 Shōman (Lesser ripening)
9. 芒種 Bōshu (Grain beards and seeds)
10. 夏至 Geshi (Summer solstice)
11. 小暑 Shōsho (Lesser heat)
12. 大暑 Taisho (Greater heat)
13. 立秋 Risshū (Beginning of autumn)
14. 処暑 Shosho (Manageable heat)
15. 白露 Hakuro (White dew)
16. 秋分 Shūbun (Autumn equinox)
17. 寒露 Kanro (Cold dew)
18. 霜降 Sōkō (Frost falls)
19. 立冬 Rittō (Beginning of winter)
20. 小雪 Shōsetsu (Lesser snow)
21. 大雪 Taisetsu (Greater snow)
22. 冬至 Tōji (Winter solstice)
23. 小寒 Shōkan (Lesser cold)
24. 大寒 Daikan (Greater cold)
    • Happy Travels, Adventurers

立春 Risshun (Beginning of spring)

February 4–8東風解凍
Harukaze kōri o toku East wind melts the ice

February 9–13黄鶯睍睆
Kōō kenkan su Bush warblers start singing in the mountains

February 14–18魚上氷
Uo kōri o izuru Fish emerge from the ice

雨水 Usui (Rainwater)

February 19–23土脉潤起
Tsuchi no shō uruoi okoru Rain moistens the soil

February 24–28霞始靆
Kasumi hajimete tanabiku Mist starts to linger

March 1–5草木萌動
Sōmoku mebae izuru Grass sprouts, trees bud

啓蟄 Keichitsu (Insects awaken)

March 6–10蟄虫啓戸
Sugomori mushito o hiraku Hibernating insects surface

March 11–15桃始笑
Momo hajimete saku First peach blossoms

March 16–20菜虫化蝶
Namushi chō to naru Caterpillars become butterflies

春分 Shunbun (Spring equinox)

March 21–25雀始巣
Suzume hajimete sukū Sparrows start to nest

March 26–30櫻始開
Sakura hajimete saku First cherry blossoms

March 31–April 4雷乃発声
Kaminari sunawachi koe o hassu Distant thunder

清明 Seimei (Pure and clear)

April 5–9玄鳥至
Tsubame kitaru Swallows return

April 10–14鴻雁北
Kōgan kaeru Wild Geese fly north

April 15–19虹始見
Niji hajimete arawaru First rainbows

穀雨 Kokuu (Grain rains)

April 20–24葭始生
Ashi hajimete shōzu First reeds sprout

April 25–29霜止出苗
Shimo yamite nae izuru Last frost, rice seedlings grow

April 30–May 4牡丹華
Botan hana saku Peonies bloom

立夏 Rikka (Beginning of summer)

May 5–9蛙始鳴
Kawazu hajimete naku Frogs start singing

May 10–14蚯蚓出
Mimizu izuru Worms surface

May 15–20竹笋生
Takenoko shōzu Bamboo shoots sprout

小満 Shōman (Lesser ripening)

May 21–25蚕起食桑
Kaiko okite kuwa o hamu Silkworms start feasting on mulberry leaves

May 26–30紅花栄
Benibana sakau Safflowers bloom

May 31–June 5麦秋至
Mugi no toki itaru Wheat ripens and is harvested

芒種 Bōshu (Grain beards and seeds)

June 6–10蟷螂生
Kamakiri shōzu Praying mantises hatch

June 11–15腐草為螢
Kusaretaru kusa hotaru to naru Rotten grass becomes fireflies

June 16–20梅子黄
Ume no mi kibamu Plums turn yellow

夏至 Geshi (Summer solstice)

June 21–26乃東枯
Natsukarekusa karuru Self-heal withers

June 27–July 1菖蒲華
Ayame hana saku Irises bloom

July 2–6半夏生
Hange shōzu Crow-dipper sprouts

小暑 Shōsho (Lesser heat)

July 7–11温風至
Atsukaze itaru Warm winds blow

July 12–16蓮始開
Hasu hajimete hiraku First lotus blossoms

July 17–22鷹乃学習
Taka sunawachi waza o narau Hawks learn to fly

大暑 Taisho (Greater heat)

July 23–28桐始結花
Kiri hajimete hana o musubu Paulownia trees produce seeds

July 29–August 2土潤溽暑
Tsuchi uruōte mushi atsushi Earth is damp, air is humid

August 3–7大雨時行
Taiu tokidoki furu Great rains sometimes fall

立秋 Risshū (Beginning of autumn)

August 8–12涼風至
Suzukaze itaru Cool winds blow

August 13–17寒蝉鳴
Higurashi naku Evening cicadas sing

August 18–22蒙霧升降
Fukaki kiri matō Thick fog descends

処暑 Shosho (Manageable heat)

August 23–27綿柎開
Wata no hana shibe hiraku Cotton flowers bloom

August 28–September 1天地始粛
Tenchi hajimete samushi Heat starts to die down

September 2–7禾乃登
Kokumono sunawachi minoru Rice ripens

白露 Hakuro (White dew)

September 8–12草露白
Kusa no tsuyu shiroshi Dew glistens white on grass

September 13–17鶺鴒鳴
Sekirei naku Wagtails sing

September 18–22玄鳥去
Tsubame saru Swallows leave

秋分 Shūbun (Autumn equinox)

September 23–27雷乃収声
Kaminari sunawachi koe o osamu Thunder ceases

September 28–October 2蟄虫坏戸
Mushi kakurete to o fusagu Insects hole up underground

October 3–7水始涸
Mizu hajimete karuru Farmers drain fields

寒露 Kanro (Cold dew)

October 8–12鴻雁来
Kōgan kitaru Wild geese return

October 13–17菊花開
Kiku no hana hiraku Chrysanthemums bloom

October 18–22蟋蟀在戸
Kirigirisu to ni ari Crickets chirp around the door

霜降 Sōkō (Frost falls)

October 23–27霜始降
Shimo hajimete furu First frost

October 28–November 1霎時施
Kosame tokidoki furu Light rains sometimes fall

November 2–6楓蔦黄
Momiji tsuta kibamu Maple leaves and ivy turn yellow

立冬 Rittō (Beginning of winter)

November 7–11山茶始開
Tsubaki hajimete hiraku Camellias bloom

November 12–16地始凍
Chi hajimete kōru Land starts to freeze

November 17–21金盞香
Kinsenka saku Daffodils bloom

小雪 Shōsetsu (Lesser snow)

November 22–26虹蔵不見
Niji kakurete Meizu Rainbows hide

November 27–December 1朔風払葉
Kitakaze konoha o harau North wind blows the leaves from the trees

December 2–6橘始黄
Tachibana hajimete kibamuTachibana Citrus tree leaves start to turn yellow

大雪 Taisetsu (Greater snow)

December 7–11閉塞成冬
Sora samuku fuyu to naru Cold sets in, winter begins

December 12–16熊蟄穴
Kuma ana ni komoru Bears start hibernating in their dens

December 17–21鱖魚群
Sake no uo muragaru Salmons gather and swim upstream

冬至 Tōji (Winter solstice)

December 22–26乃東生
Natsukarekusa shōzu Self-heal sprouts

December 27–31麋角解
Sawashika no tsuno otsuru Deer shed antlers

January 1–4雪下出麦
Yuki watarite mugi nobiru Wheat sprouts under snow

小寒 Shōkan (Lesser cold)

January 5–9芹乃栄
Seri sunawachi sakau Parsley flourishes

January 10–14水泉動
Shimizu atataka o fukumu Springs thaw

January 15–19雉始雊
Kiji hajimete naku Pheasants start to call

大寒 Daikan (Greater cold)

January 20–24款冬華
Fuki no hana saku Butterburs bud

January 25–29水沢腹堅
Kiwamizu kōri tsumeru Ice thickens on streams

At Iruma river, Kawagoe, Saitama. 3 handheld RAWs (+-2EV)

January 30–February 3鶏始乳
Niwatori hajimete toya ni tsuku Hens start laying eggs

Japan’s 72 microseasons offer a unique and fascinating aspect of the country’s culture and climate. From the cherry blossoms of spring to the fiery foliage of autumn, each season brings its own beauty and charm. Understanding the microseasons allows for a deeper appreciation of Japan’s natural beauty and a more fulfilling travel experience. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply seeking to deepen your understanding of Japan, learning about the country’s microseasons is a must. So next time you plan your trip to Japan, try to be aware of the microseasons, and enjoy the different facets of Japanese culture and nature.

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post A Complete Guide to the Beauty and Diversity of Japan’s Amazing 72 Microseasons first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.