Microseason: Earth’s Pulse Moistens

SPRING

RAIN WATER

EARTH’S PULSE MOISTENS

18 - 22 February

Whilst this period often coincides with the peak of accumulated snowfall, it is also seen as a turning point when the temperatures begin to rise. The harsh cold gradually eases, snowfall turns into rain, and the deep layers of snow and ice in the mountains melt. This is the season of Haru-ichiban, the first Spring winds, further nudging the thaw.

The rain that falls during these early days of Spring is called Yōka-u, the rain that nurtures flowering, as it is believed to encourage the trifecta of Spring flowers: plums, cherries, peaches. This rainwater, which activates cyclicality of earth and water for the remainder of the year, has long been considered a key indicator to begin agricultural preparations.

In the Edo-period almanac Koyomi Benran, Calendar Handbook, this sub-season, Usui, is described as "yang energy rises to the surface of the earth, snow and ice melt, and turn into rainwater." In merchant households during this period, it was believed that displaying Hina dolls from the Usui period ahead of Girl’s Day on 3rd March, would give way to strong partnerships and family bonds. Another aspect of the art of preparation, nurturing future relationships.

The microseason Earth’s Pulse Moistens, refers to the gentle rains that soften the once-frozen ground below. Anticipating the return of small insects that have been hibernating within the earth. This is one example of the naming of microseasons differing from the original Chinese version that was shared with Japan about 1500 years ago. The correlating Chinese microseason is Celebrating Otters and Fish. During this season, otters line up their catch, as though sharing offerings to their ancestors. Though there are a plethora of similarities between China and Japan, often our perspective, and certainly our terroir can be quite different. Making these comparisons interesting to follow.

Photo credit: Momoko Nakamura