Shunbun no Hi

Shunbun no hi
Vernal Equinox Day

This holiday is normally held on March 20 or March 21 each year

Its a day when the sun crosses the equator, making night and day equal in length.

Seven days leading up to Shunbun no hi, Japanese families will visit their family members' graves, leaving flowers, incense and sweet rice balls as offerings. This period is called Higan.


Sweet rice balls= bota mochi

In Japan, it is a day to be amongst nature and show affection for all living things.
Japan's cherry blossoms start to bloom during this time. People travel all around the country to view the cherry blossoms and see loved ones.

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Cherry blossom= Sakura

Schools also hold graduation and closing ceremonies on this day

School= Gakkou
Graduation= Sotsugyou
Closing ceremony= Shuugyou shiki

Multiple Choice

What does Shunbun no hi mean in English?

• Bountiful Harvest Day

• Vernal Equinox Day

• Graduation ceremony

• Sweet rice ball

Multiple Select

What do Japanese people give as offerings to deceased family members?

• bota mochi

• flowers and incense

• sakura blossoms

• usagi

Multiple Choice

What happens on Shunbun no hi?

• People make offering to usagi no kami

• People throw soy beans to scare away demons

• Sun crosses over the equator

• A festival that signifies the separation between church and state

Multiple Select

What is the importance of Shunbun no hi with Japanese schools?

• Japan schools hold graduation on this holiday

• Students take the day to clean the school

• Students write calligraphy in a ritual called kakizome

• Opening & Closing ceremony takes place during this holiday