[The 24 Solar Terms] Shōkō (Frost's Descent)

Sōkō (Frost Descent)

Approximately October 23rd - November 6th

The last seasonal period of autumn, when the mornings and evenings become noticeably colder. It literally means the time when the first frost descends on plants.

In northern regions, this is when dew turns into frost. It is said that frost, which is a crystal of ice, was once believed to fall from the sky like rain or snow. For this reason, frost is described as "falling."

Let's begin preparations for winter while feeling the pure beauty dwelling in the chilled air.

 

72 Micro-Seasons

Approximately October 23rd - 27th: "Shimo Hajimete Furu (First frost descends)"

The time when the first frost descends, and the tips of the grass leaves are frozen white.

Frost, shimmering in the morning sun, is a fleeting presence that disappears in just a moment. The beauty of the changing seasons is condensed in that instant sparkle.

 

Approximately October 28th - November 1st: "Kosame Tokidoki Furu (Light rain falls occasionally)"

The time when light rain drizzles occasionally.

The rain that wets the autumn leaves deepens their colors even more. Listening to the quiet sound of the rain, one feels that autumn is slowly drawing to a close.

 

Approximately November 2nd - 6th: "Momiji Tsuta Kibamu (Maple and ivy turn yellow)"

The time when the maple trees and ivy on the mountains turn red and yellow.

The mountainsides are ablaze with color, and the splendor of late autumn reaches its peak. In each scattered leaf, there is a beauty like a seasonal poem.

 

Seasonal Delights and Events

The period of Sōkō marks the culmination of "autumn of appetite." Winter vegetables such as mushrooms, lotus root, garland chrysanthemum, and daikon radish begin to appear one after another.

It's the season when warm dishes like hot pot, oden, and stews are craved.

For fruits, persimmons and apples become sweeter, and yuzu and mandarin oranges also start to come into season.

Additionally, salmon and yellowtail (buri) caught during this period are fatty and delicious. The flavors of autumn deepen even more.

In rice-producing regions, this is the time when the harvest is finished and preparations for winter begin.

In some areas, autumn festivals are held to give thanks for a bountiful harvest.

 

Summary of "Sōkō"

Sōkō is the closing of autumn and the seasonal period that signals the beginning of winter. It's the time when nature slowly begins to prepare for sleep.

The morning frost, the cold wind, the colors of the autumn leaves—all play a quiet melody of the season's lingering beauty.

Each scene leaves a somewhat nostalgic and poignant impression on the heart.

On a frosty morning, why not gaze at the whiteness of your breath and feel the certainty of the year's cycle?

Sōkō is the beautiful final chapter where nature's breath quietly transitions into winter.