[24 Solar Terms] Usui (Rainwater)

Usui (Rainwater)

Around February 19th - March 4th

The cold snow finally turns into rain, and the meltwater flowing from the mountains irrigates the fields, marking the beginning of farming season.

The sunlight also becomes milder, making us feel that spring is finally near.

《72 Micro-Seasons》

Around February 19th - 23rd: "Tsuchi no sho uruoi okoru" (The earth becomes moist)

Around February 24th - 28th: "Kasumi hajimetetanabiku" (Mists begin to trail)

Around March 1st - 4th: "Soumoku mebae izuru" (Grass and trees sprout)

This is the time when the snow melts and the soil regains its moisture, mists hang over distant mountains, and pale green plants sprout in gardens. Incidentally, "kasumi" (mist) is also a kigo (seasonal word) for spring, referring to the fog that appears during this period.

 

Clams are a classic food for Hina Matsuri (Doll's Festival).

Since the two shells of a clam fit together perfectly only with their original match, they are considered a symbol of "marital harmony," with the wish that a daughter will meet a good partner in the future.