72 Seasons: November

In Japan, there are 72 subdivision seasons called the shichijuni kou. The seasons are named after the birds, insects, plants, and weather of each change in nature every five days.

霜降 Sōkō (Frost Falls)

• November 2–6: 楓蔦黄 Momiji tsuta kibamu (Maple & Ivy Leaves Turn Yellow)

立冬 Rittō (Beginning of Winter)

• November 7–11: 山茶始開 Tsubaki hajimete hiraku (Camellias Start to Bloom)
• November 12–16: 地始凍 Chi hajimete kōru (Land Starts to Freeze)
• November 17–21: 金盞香 Kinsenka saku (Narcissus Bloom)

小雪 Shōsetsu (Light Snow)

• November 22–26: 虹蔵不見 Niji kakurete miezu (Rainbows Hide)
• November 27–December 1: 朔風払葉 Kitakaze konoha o harau (North Wind Blows the Leaves from the Trees)

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The season of stunning red leaves has finally arrived. Around this time, the term “red-leaf foliage front” becomes part of everyday conversation. This phenomenon begins in October, starting in the northern regions of Japan and gradually moving southward. Across the country, countless scenic spots become popular destinations for families and friends, who gather to marvel at the vivid hues of red and gold. The beauty is particularly breathtaking when the setting sun bathes the landscape in its warm glow, making the mountains appear almost divine.

November 7th marks the official beginning of winter. Amid the wintry landscapes, where most plants have withered away, the vibrant Camellia flowers bloom with exceptional beauty, their bright petals standing out against the muted backdrop. Rivers and the earth are frozen solid by the biting winter air. How sensitive the eyes of ancient people must have been to notice these delicate transitions, capturing even the subtlest seasonal changes beneath their feet.

The Narcissus, often described as a "flower in the snow," also begins to bloom during this time. Known since the Edo period (1603–1868) for its pristine appearance and elegant fragrance, it has been highly esteemed in Japanese culture. In the art of ikebana, it is celebrated as a flower of great dignity, often paired with traditional symbols of the New Year, such as pine, bamboo, and plum.

On November 15th, the charming tradition of Shichi-Go-San is celebrated. Boys aged three and five, and girls aged three and seven, visit shrines with their families to receive blessings for their health and longevity. This cherished ritual has been passed down through generations, creating a sense of warmth and joy amidst the cooling air.

By November 22nd, the first snow begins to fall in northern and mountainous regions. The days grow shorter, the sunlight weaker, and the skies more frequently overcast, with rainbows becoming a rare sight. This absence of vibrant elements adds a quiet, melancholic tone to the season, evoking the introspective beauty of winter. The north wind sweeps across the land, stripping trees of their remaining leaves and revealing the intricate, sculptural forms of bare branches. This stark, serene view offers a unique charm, highlighting the quiet elegance of winter’s arrival.

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楓蔦黄 Momiji tsuta kibamu (Maple & Ivy Leaves Turn Yellow)

山茶始開 Tsubaki hajimete hiraku (Camellias Start to Bloom)

地始凍 Chi hajimete kōru (Land Starts to Freeze)

金盞香 Kinsenka saku (Narcissus Bloom)

虹蔵不見 Niji kakurete miezu (Rainbows Hide)

朔風払葉 Kitakaze konoha o harau (North Wind Blows the Leaves from the Trees)