Autumnal Equinox Day in Japan: Understanding Ohigan and Ancestor Visits

Autumnal Equinox Day, known in Japanese as Shubun no Hi, is a national holiday in Japan that marks the transition into autumn. It is part of a spiritual period called Ohigan, a period centered around the equinox where people honor their ancestors through Buddhist rituals and grave visits.

The Traditions of Ohigan

Ohigan refers to the period surrounding the autumnal equinox. The term comes from the Sanskrit word "paramita," which means "to go to the other shore." In a Buddhist context, this represents the journey from the world of suffering to the world of enlightenment. During this time, many Japanese people focus on spiritual reflection and showing respect to those who have passed away.

A significant activity during Ohigan is the increased activity at local cemeteries. Families gather to clean the gravestones, pull weeds around the burial plots, and offer fresh flowers, incense, and water. This practice, called ohaka-mairi, is a way to maintain a connection with family lineage and express gratitude to ancestors.

Seasonal Foods and Customs

Food plays a significant role in marking the change of seasons during Ohigan. The most traditional food associated with the autumn equinox is botamochi. These are sweet rice balls made from glutinous rice, filled with red bean paste (anko). While they are similar to the spring version called ohagi, the name changes depending on the season.

Eating these seasonal treats is a way to mark the shifting weather. You will often find botamochi in supermarkets and traditional confectionery shops (wagashi-ya) leading up to the holiday. While not everyone observes the religious aspects of Ohigan, the seasonal food traditions are widely recognized across Japan.

Practical Information for Residents

Because Autumnal Equinox Day is a national holiday, please keep the following practical details in mind:

• Public Services: Banks, post offices, and government offices will be closed. Plan your errands accordingly.

• Transportation: Trains and buses usually run on holiday schedules. During long weekends, popular routes may be more crowded than usual.

• Cemeteries: If you plan to visit a cemetery, expect it to be much busier than usual. It is polite to keep noise levels low as many people are performing solemn rituals.

• Shops and Restaurants: Most retail stores and restaurants remain open, but some smaller local businesses may close for the holiday.

Good to know

• Holiday Timing: The exact date of the equinox changes slightly every year, so always check the official calendar for the specific date of the holiday.

• Flower Choices: When visiting graves, chrysanthemums are a traditional and respectful choice of flower.

• Weather: September in Japan can still be quite warm or even rainy, so check the weather forecast before heading to outdoor cemeteries.

Official information

• Prime Minister's Office of Japan
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
• Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

Rules and fees can change. Please confirm the latest details with the official sources above.