Shubun Sai Spring Equinox in Japan
71Visiting Graves and Remembering Ancestors
Shubun Sai or Spring Equinox is an important National Holiday in Japan. It is a day for visiting graves of the departed and remembering the Ancestors.
Many visitors to the graves show their love and respect by washing the gravestones, cleaning the area, and leaving fresh flowers.
Though this activity is an important part of Shubun Sai, it is also an occasion to celebrate spring, nature and new life.
Japanese Cemetry
Image of a Graveyard in Tokyo
Source: Photo Everywhere
When Is Shubun Sai Celebrated
Shubun Sai is celebrated either on the 20th or the 21st of March each year. The date of the holiday is not declared official until February of the previous year.
In 2011 Shubun Sai will be celebrated on Monday March 21.
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