日本語のはてなを解説＃9〔日本の季節について（四季）〕

Summary

This video explores Japan’s four distinct seasons, known as 'Shiki', and their associated events. It covers the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring, fireworks and festivals in summer, the joys of autumn foliage and food in fall, and the winter festivities including New Year's traditions. The script highlights cultural activities like graduation ceremonies, flower viewing, sports festivals, and family gatherings, emphasizing how the Japanese embrace seasonal changes through events, food, and natural beauty. The video offers a rich insight into how seasonal transitions shape the lives of the Japanese people.

Takeaways

• 😀 Japan has four distinct seasons: spring (春), summer (夏), autumn (秋), and winter (冬), each with unique cultural and natural characteristics.
• 🌸 In spring, cherry blossoms (桜) are a symbol of renewal and are associated with events like graduation ceremonies and entrance ceremonies.
• 🥳 The spring season also involves 'Hanami' (cherry blossom viewing), a popular event where people gather for picnics under blooming sakura trees.
• 😷 Spring can be challenging for those with pollen allergies (花粉症), causing discomfort such as itchy eyes and sneezing.
• 🎆 Summer is synonymous with fireworks festivals (花火大会), where large firework displays light up the night sky, accompanied by food stalls and festive atmospheres.
• 👘 Summer festivals (夏祭り) feature people wearing yukata, enjoying street food, and taking part in various traditional activities.
• 🌞 The summer season also includes the Obon holiday, when many people return to their hometowns to honor their ancestors and reconnect with family.
• ⚾ Summer also marks the high school baseball tournament (甲子園), where students from across Japan compete in a national sports event.
• 🍁 Autumn is a season of cooler weather and natural beauty, particularly the changing colors of leaves (紅葉), which are enjoyed by many.
• 🍂 The autumn season is associated with various activities like food festivals (食欲の秋), reading (読書の秋), travel (行楽の秋), and sports (スポーツの秋), making it a time for both relaxation and outdoor adventures.
• 🎄 Winter brings Christmas celebrations, including decorating trees and eating Christmas cake, followed by the New Year holiday with traditional foods and visits to shrines (初詣).
• ❄️ The winter season in Japan is also characterized by the comfort of the kotatsu (こたつ), a heated table often enjoyed with mandarins (みかん) to stay warm during cold months.

Q & A

What is the significance of cherry blossoms in Japan's spring season?

Cherry blossoms (sakura) are deeply symbolic in Japan, representing the beauty and fleeting nature of life. They are closely tied to spring, and many traditional events such as graduation and entrance ceremonies take place during this time.

How has COVID-19 affected traditional spring events in Japan?

Due to COVID-19, many traditional spring events like hanami (cherry blossom viewing) were either canceled or restricted. People could no longer gather in parks for picnics or enjoy the usual social activities associated with cherry blossom season.

What is the role of pollen allergies during Japan's spring season?

Spring in Japan is also the time when people suffer from hay fever caused by cedar pollen. This seasonal allergy leads to symptoms such as itchy eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing, which are common from February to April.

What are some key summer activities in Japan?

Key summer activities in Japan include attending fireworks festivals (hanabi), participating in summer festivals (matsuri), wearing yukata (traditional summer kimono), and enjoying food from street vendors like kakigori (shaved ice).

How do summer festivals in Japan connect to local culture?

Summer festivals (matsuri) in Japan are deeply rooted in local traditions. People often dress in yukata, engage in traditional dances, and enjoy local foods. These festivals celebrate cultural heritage and provide a sense of community.

What is the significance of the Obon holiday in Japan?

Obon is a traditional Japanese holiday during which people honor their ancestors by visiting their graves and offering prayers. It is also a time for family reunions, with many people returning to their hometowns.

How does autumn in Japan influence food culture?

Autumn in Japan is associated with 'shokuyoku no aki' or the 'autumn of appetite.' This is a time when seasonal foods like new rice, persimmons, mushrooms, and sweet potatoes are enjoyed. The cooler weather makes food more appealing and people often partake in seasonal delicacies.

What is 'koyo' and why is it important in Japan?

Koyo refers to the changing of the leaves during autumn. Japanese people love to admire the vibrant red, orange, and yellow colors of the foliage. Many people visit scenic spots to enjoy 'momiji-gari' or autumn leaf viewing, which is a traditional autumn activity.

What traditional customs are associated with winter in Japan?

In winter, Japanese people celebrate Christmas, enjoy New Year’s traditions like eating 'osechi' (special food), and participate in 'hatsumode' (first shrine visit of the year). They also enjoy staying warm in a 'kotatsu' (heated table) and eating mikan (mandarins).

What does eating soba on New Year's Eve symbolize in Japan?

Eating soba on New Year's Eve is a tradition in Japan. The long, thin noodles symbolize longevity and the desire for a long, healthy life. This custom is part of the New Year’s Eve celebration, marking the transition into the new year.