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    What is Shōkan? Definition and Basic Information

    Shōkan (小寒), literally meaning "Lesser Cold" or "Small Cold," is the 23rd of the 24 traditional solar terms (nijūshi sekki) in the Japanese calendar system. This ancient calendar, originally developed in China and adopted by Japan over 1,000 years ago, divides the year into 24 precise periods that reflect subtle seasonal changes.

    -Key Facts About Shōkan:
    Japanese name: 小寒 (Shōkan)
    English translation: Lesser Cold, Minor Cold, Small Cold
    Date: The first two weeks of January
    Season: Winter (6th winter solar term)

    What makes Shōkan special? Unlike Western calendar systems that recognize only four seasons, Shōkan represents a nuanced understanding of seasonal transition. It marks the period when winter's grip begins to tighten, yet it's called "lesser" cold because the most severe winter weather (Daikan - Greater Cold) is still to come.

    When Does Shōkan Occur? Dates and Duration

    2024-2026 Shōkan Dates:

    2024: January 6 - January 19

    2025: January 5 - January 19

    2026: January 6 - January 19

    Duration: Shōkan typically lasts about 15 days, beginning around January 5-6 and ending around January 19-20, when it transitions to Daikan (大寒, Greater Cold).

    Why Do the Dates Vary? The solar terms are based on the sun's position relative to Earth, specifically when the sun reaches 285 degrees ecliptic longitude. This astronomical calculation means dates can shift by one day depending on leap years and precise celestial mechanics.

    Shōkan vs Other Winter Solar Terms: Understanding the Differences 

    Understanding Shōkan requires knowing how it fits within Japan's winter solar term progression:

    Winter Solar Terms Sequence:

    Rittō (立冬) - Start of Winter (November 7-8)

    Shōsetsu (小雪) - Light Snow (November 22-23)

    Taisetsu (大雪) - Heavy Snow (December 7-8)

    Tōji (冬至) - Winter Solstice (December 21-22)

    Shōkan (小寒) - Lesser Cold (January 5-6) ← Current topic

    Daikan (大寒) - Greater Cold (January 20-21)

    Traditional Customs and Practices During Shōkan

    Shōkan is rich with traditional customs that continue in modern Japan, each designed to help people physically and mentally prepare for the coming cold.

    Major Shōkan Customs:

    1. Nanakusa-gayu (七草粥) - Seven Herbs Porridge (January 7)

    What it is: A rice porridge made with seven specific spring herbs Purpose: Cleanse the body after New Year festivities and pray for good health The seven herbs: Seri, nazuna, gogyō, hakobera, hotokenoza, suzuna, suzushiro

    If you want to know more about Nanakusa-gayu, please check this article
    https://www.group-shinka.com/culture/nanakusa-no-sekku

     

    1. 2. Kagami-biraki (鏡開き) - Breaking the Mirror Rice Cake (January 11)

    What it is: Breaking and eating the decorative New Year rice cakes (kagami-mochi) Why: To receive blessings and pray for family health and prosperity Method: The mochi must be broken (not cut) to avoid "cutting" good fortune

     

    1. 3. Tōka Ebisu (十日えびす) - Ten Days of Ebisu Festival (January 9-11)

    What it is: Festival honoring Ebisu, god of fishing and commerce Where: Major shrines like Nishinomiya Shrine (Hyogo) and Imamiya Ebisu Shrine (Osaka) Activities: Purchasing fukuzasa (lucky bamboo) and kumade (decorative rakes) for business prosperity

     

    1. 4. Dontoyaki/Tondoyaki - Ritual Burning (January 7-15)

    What it is: Burning New Year decorations and first calligraphy of the year Purpose: "Send" the New Year gods back to heaven and pray for good health Modern practice: Many communities organize these burning ceremonies in parks or shrine grounds

    Frequently Asked Questions About Shōkan

    Q: What is the difference between Shōkan and winter in Western calendars?

    A: Western calendars typically recognize winter as beginning on the winter solstice (December 21-22), while Shōkan represents a more nuanced understanding. In the Japanese system, winter begins with Rittō (November 7-8), and Shōkan specifically marks the period when cold begins to intensify, about two weeks after the winter solstice.

    Q: Why is it called "Lesser Cold" if winter gets colder?

    A: Shōkan is "lesser" compared to Daikan (Greater Cold), which follows it in late January. The name reflects the understanding that while Shōkan is cold, the most severe winter weather is still approaching.

    Q: Do all regions of Japan experience Shōkan the same way?

    A: No. Northern regions like Hokkaido may already be experiencing severe cold during Shōkan, while southern areas like Okinawa may barely notice temperature changes. However, the cultural observances and seasonal awareness remain consistent across Japan.

    Q: What should I know if visiting Japan during Shōkan?

    A:Pack warm clothes: Even in mild regions, temperatures drop significantly

    Try seasonal foods: Oden, hot pot, and warming dishes are at their peak

    Visit winter festivals: Many shrines hold special events during this period

    Respect the rhythm: Japanese society moves more slowly and thoughtfully during this time

    Summary  

    Shōkan (小寒) represents far more than a calendar marking—it embodies centuries of Japanese wisdom about living harmoniously with natural rhythms and finding community warmth during challenging seasons.

    Are you planning a trip to Japan and interested in experiencing this unique season? Visiting Japan during Shōkan offers an unforgettable cultural experience, blending tradition with modern life. Feel free to reach out for more details!