A Day or a Season: How Easter and Japan Welcome Spring
- by MaedaYumiko
- 1 min reading time
While Easter ushers in spring in Berlin, this season unfolds slowly and quietly in Japan – accompanied by traditions, memories, and the special beauty of change.
In Berlin, everything is currently dominated by Easter.
Daylight Saving Time has also begun, and the whole city is suddenly imbued with a spring-like atmosphere.
In Japan, however, spring feels a little different.
With the first plum blossoms, Hinamatsuri, graduation ceremonies, and finally Hanami, spring gradually unfolds, step by step.
In Japan, April marks the start of school.
Under the cherry blossoms, children in their school uniforms can be seen taking photos with their families – a very special and symbolic image of spring.
Children wear their new uniforms or something especially smart.
And although it's less common now, you still see mothers wearing a kimono for the occasion.
Since my own children live in Berlin, I haven't experienced such moments with a kimono.
However, once when I temporarily returned to Japan, I helped my sister get dressed for my nephew's graduation and entrance ceremonies.
A delicate, pink kimono with floral patterns – perfectly in tune with spring.
Just putting it on made my own heart feel light.
And I still vividly remember how happy my nephew was to see his mother in that special outfit for once.
When the graduation season is over, the cherry blossoms slowly begin to fall,
and fresh green sprouts – quietly announcing the arrival of summer.
In Japan, spring is not defined by a single event,
but by many small transitions that unfold until the cherry blossoms fade.
Precisely because of this, there is the idea in kimono of "wearing" the season.
It's not just about a moment, but about making the changing of time visible.
And here in Europe, we are celebrating this special time right now – Easter. This year, I also painted Easter eggs with my children and had a small egg hunt.
The handmade colors and shapes hold many beautiful memories. 🐣 I wish you a peaceful and joyful time with your family during these days.