How Japanese spend the time of Winter Solstice is one of the facts now known well.
In the Northern hemisphere, Winter Solstice is the day when the sun is at its lowest elevation and the sunset daylight hours is shortest in the year.
Let see what Japanese do and how they spend the time on that day!
How Japanese call and think “Winter Solstice”?
Winter Solstice is called as “Toji 冬至” in Japanese.
In ancient Japan, Japanese thought “the Winter Solstice was meant the sun’s power is getting weak, the day that death is impending”.
Therefore, some activities and customs to remove disasters and ill fortune were being handed down on the day. It is traditionally considered an important moment.
1. Eating Pumpkin (“Kabocha”)
Pumpkin, which is called “Kabocha” in Japan, is an Asian variety of winter squash.
In Japan, it’s said that it’s a representative vegetable to protects the body against colds.
In Japan, the pumpkin’s harvest period runs from early summer until October. Since they have the thick and hard skin, they are usually displayed for a long time in Japanese grocery.
In terms of their ingrediency, since they are rich in vitamin A, Japanese eat it to prevent vitamin deficiency when other fresh vegetables are not available in winter.
Although you can’t imagen it, Japanese Pumpkin (Kabocha) is really really sweet!!
Since I’m not a sweet tooth, to tell the truth, I don’t like Kabocha so much…
2. Taking “Yuzu” Bath (“Yuzu buro”)
“Yuzu” has become famous these days in the world.
As you might know well, Yuzu is a kind of aromatic citrons, contains a lot of vitamin C to protect yourself against colds and flu. In Japan, it grows in warm regions.
Since the color is yellowish and the shape is round, Yuzu is considered and symbolized the sun.
So, many of Japanese enjoy Yuzu bath by simply tossing these into bathwater.
From the next day onward of Winter Solstice, the days begin to lengthen again. It is understandable that winter solstice gives hope and joy to those who endured the cold winter. So, Japanese enjoy Yuzu bath on the day of Winter Solstice to have wormer days.
In Yuzu bath, the lovely fragrance of yuzu will instantly lift your mood up. The essential oil in Yuzu also helps your body warm and smooth.
Not only Japanese but some animals enjoy Yuzu bath. Please see this funny video!!
Stay warm and health!!
Comments