Seasonal Words & the Meaning of 春分の日 (Vernal Equinox Day)
As winter fades and cherry blossoms begin to bloom, spring in Japan brings a sense of renewal, beauty, and tradition. One important date that marks this seasonal shift is Vernal Equinox Day (春分の日 / しゅんぶんのひ), celebrated each year around March 20th.
But beyond being a public holiday, it’s also a perfect opportunity to learn some beautiful Japanese spring vocabulary.
What is 春分の日?
春分の日 (しゅんぶんのひ / Shunbun no Hi) is a national holiday in Japan that celebrates the arrival of spring. On this day, daylight and nighttime are nearly equal in length.
A Bit of History
The origins of 春分の日 go back to Shunki Koreisai, a traditional event linked to Shinto practices honoring imperial ancestors.
After World War II, Japan redefined the holiday to focus less on religious aspects and more on appreciating nature and living things. Today, it’s a time for:
- Visiting family graves
- Spending time with loved ones
- Enjoying the changing season
Essential Spring Vocabulary in Japanese
Here are some must-know Japanese words to help you talk about spring in Japan:
春
はる
Romaji: haru
Meaning: Spring
Example:
春は暖かいです。
はる は あたたかい です。
Haru wa atatakai desu.
Spring is warm.
花見
はなみ
Romaji: hanami
Meaning: Cherry blossom viewing
Example:
友達と花見に行きます。
ともだち と はなみ に いきます。
Tomodachi to hanami ni ikimasu.
I will go cherry blossom viewing with friends.
新生活
しんせいかつ
Romaji: shinseikatsu
Meaning: New life / new beginning
Example:
春は新生活の季節です。
はる は しんせいかつ の きせつ です。
Haru wa shinseikatsu no kisetsu desu.
Spring is the season of new beginnings.
Why Spring is Special for Students in Japan
Spring is the most popular intake period for international students and for good reason:
- Start of the Academic Year
In Japan, the school year begins in April. Starting in spring allows you to align with local students and fully experience school life.
Explore your options here
- A Fresh Start in a New Country
Spring represents 新生活 (new beginnings) in Japan. It’s when people:
Start new jobs
Move to new cities
Begin new studies
Discover the best cities to study in Japan here.
- Experience Cherry Blossom Season
Studying in Japan during spring means experiencing 花見 (hanami, one of the country’s most iconic cultural traditions.
Parks, streets, and campuses are filled with blooming sakura trees, creating unforgettable memories for students.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re walking under blooming sakura trees or starting a new chapter in your life, 春分の日 is a meaningful reminder of balance, renewal, and appreciation for nature.
If you’re planning to study in Japan, spring might just be the perfect time to begin your journey.
Interested in starting your studies in Japan this spring?
DEOW Japan can help you choose the right school, apply for your visa, and prepare for your new life in Japan. Apply via the inquiry form below
