Japanese Holidays- The Spring Equinox, or Shunbun no hi, Higan

When the delicate blush of Cherry blossoms start to appear and line the countryside with their pinkish hue, it’s spring time in Japan. The spring equinox in the United States isn’t extremely eventful, but in Japan, it’s a major celebration dating back 1300 years, probably even more.

Shunbun no hi is the name given to Japan’s spring vernal equinox day. Shunbun no hi is also known as Higan, a Buddhist term meaning “other shore”. In Buddhism, the equal parts of day and night represent two shores separated by a river. Buddha is said to appear on Shunbun no hi to help the lost souls across the river into enlightenment and nirvana. Therefore, the 7 day celebration of Higan is typically spent honoring the decreased, visiting their graves and leaving offerings.

One of the popular graveside offerings is ohagi, which is a ball of rice coated in a sweet bean paste. I'm not entirely sure the reason for a ball of rice, but I know that the Japanese culture is very big on symbolism. A circle, or Enso, is the ultimate symbol of Zen, symbolizing enlightenment and the universe; so I suppose that the ball of rice represents the sublime meaning of life. Or, it could just be a convenient way to not dirty up a rice bowl!

If you are interested in tasting these unique rice orbs, here’s a recipe for ohagi:

"Ingredients:

•*For Rice Balls:

•2 1/2 cup glutious rice (mochi gome)

•1/2 cup Japanese rice

•3 cup water

•*For Toppings:

•3/4 lb. anko (sweet azuki bean paste)

•1/2 cup crushed walnuts and 2 Tbsp sugar, ground

•3 Tbsp black sesame seeds and 1 1/2 Tbsp sugar, ground

•1/3 cup kinako (soy bean powder) and 2 Tbsp sugar, mixed

Preparation:

Put both kinds of rice in a bowl and wash with cold water. Drain the rice in a colander and set aside for 30 minutes. Place the rice in a rice cooker and add measured water. Let the rice soak in the water for 30 minutes. Start the cooker. Put prepared toppings, such as anko and sesame seeds, in seperate bowls. When rice is cooked, let it steam for 15 minutes. Mash the rice with wooden pestle until sticky. Wet hands and shape the rice into oval balls. Cover rice balls with different toppings.

*Makes about 32 rice balls" Source: http://japanesefood.about.com/od/rice/r/ohagi.htm

A green way to give homage to Higan is to plant the beautiful ornamental cherry tree, Weeping Higan Cherry Tree.

Many cultures and religions fervently celebrate the beginning of spring and I think we here in America should as well. The rebirth of Mother Nature is something we should all celebrate, cherish, and honor.