If you’ve ever visited Japan in March, you might have noticed families gathering in cemeteries, cleaning gravestones, and leaving offerings of flowers and food. This isn’t just a random tradition—it’s part of a significant cultural and spiritual practice tied to the changing seasons.
So why do Japanese people visit graves around the spring equinox? The answer lies in a Buddhist concept known as Higan (彼岸), which symbolizes the journey between life and death. Let’s dive into the meaning behind this practice and how it reflects Japanese beliefs about family, ancestors, and the cycle of nature.
The Spring Equinox and Its Spiritual Meaning
In Japan, the spring equinox is known as Shunbun no Hi (春分の日). It’s a national holiday marking the time when day and night are equal in length. But for many Japanese people, this day is more than just a seasonal shift—it’s a time to honor their ancestors.
The connection between the equinox and ancestral remembrance comes from the Buddhist idea of Higan, which means “the other shore.” In Buddhist thought, this represents the transition from the world of suffering (our current life) to enlightenment (the afterlife). It’s believed that during the equinox, the boundary between these two realms becomes thinner, making it an ideal time to pay respects to those who have passed away.
What Happens During the Spring Equinox?
During the week surrounding the equinox (called Higan Week), many Japanese families visit cemeteries to:
- Clean the grave
- Remove weeds and dirt from the gravestone
- Wash the stone with water
- Make offerings
- Place fresh flowers, incense, and food (such as rice or sweets) on the grave
- Some families leave favorite items of the deceased
- Pray and show respect
- Bow and put hands together in prayer
- Some may recite Buddhist sutras or offer silent reflections
While these customs are rooted in Buddhist traditions, they are widely practiced by people of all beliefs in Japan. The key idea is to take time to remember and express gratitude to one’s ancestors.
Why the Equinox? A Cultural and Seasonal Perspective
The practice of visiting graves during the equinox is not just about religion—it’s also deeply tied to nature. The equinox represents balance—between light and dark, life and death, and the past and the present.
Japan has a long tradition of celebrating seasonal changes with rituals that connect people to nature and their ancestors. Just as Western cultures have springtime holidays like Easter, which symbolize renewal and rebirth, Japan’s equinox traditions serve as a moment of reflection and connection with family.
A Timeless Tradition
Even in modern Japan, where daily life is fast-paced, many people still observe Higan by visiting their ancestors’ graves or simply taking a moment to remember them at home. Some temples also hold ceremonies during this time, offering a communal space for people to pay their respects.
This tradition reflects a fundamental aspect of Japanese culture: the idea that our ancestors are always a part of us, guiding and watching over us. By taking time to honor them, people not only show respect but also strengthen the bonds between generations.
Next time you find yourself in Japan during the spring equinox, take a moment to observe this beautiful tradition—it’s a quiet but powerful reminder of the deep connection between family, nature, and the passage of time.
