Microseason: Chrysanthemums Bloom

AUTUMN

COLD DEW

CHRYSANTHEMUMS BLOOM

13 - 17 October

Kiku, or Chrysanthemums, are central to traditional customs of the season. There are over 350 varietals in Japan. As the national flower, parks, temples, and shrines show off their Chrysanthemums this time of year.

Kikubare - The time of year when the Chrysanthemum bloom, beautiful blue Autumn skies fill the landscape above. Cotton fluff would be placed on top of the Chrysanthemums flowers overnight. The early morning dew and the floral fragrance transfers to the cotton, and this cotton would be used to purify the body from evil spirits.

Kikumakura - The women of yesteryear would fill pillows with fragrant Chrysanthemum petals and gift them to their partner as it was said that these pillows ensured that the two would be connected in their dreams. It is also said that Chrysanthemums help soothe fevers and colds overnight to promote longevity.

Kikuzake - Another way to enjoy this microseason is to place Chrysanthemum petals inside Japanese nihonshu sake cups. These floating petals are a way to bring the outdoors inside. Celebrating the season at the table. Kikuzake pairs well with rice steamed with chestnut and mushrooms, along with seasonal seafood like mackerel, saury, and sandfish.

Chrysanthemums, like the other iconic seasonal blossoms across the year, are essential in telling the microseasonal tale of the country.

Photo credit: Momoko Nakamura