22 types

Many of you were probably surprised to learn there are that many kinds. In fact, there are 22 types of acorns in Japan. If you look closely, you’ll find various shapes—some long and slender, others round and plump. By the way, “acorn” is a common name for the fruit of trees in the beech family, and there is no plant that is actually named “acorn.”

Shichi-Go-San (the traditional Japanese celebration for children aged 3, 5, and 7)

November 15 is a day in Japan called Shichi-Go-San. On this day, people celebrate the growth of children aged three, five, and seven, visit shrines to give thanks, and pray for their healthy development. Originally, it was celebrated as separate ceremonies known as Kamioki-no-gi (ceremony of letting the hair grow), Hakamagi-no-gi (ceremony of putting on hakama), and Obi-toki-no-gi (ceremony of untying the sash).

Culture Day

November 3 is Culture Day. It was established in 1946 to commemorate the promulgation of the Constitution of Japan. This national holiday is intended to celebrate a love of freedom and peace and to promote culture. Many regions also hold cultural festivals and arts events on this day.

Shimotsuki (the traditional Japanese name for the 11th month)

The traditional Japanese name for November is “Shimotsuki.” It’s called that because it’s the season when frost falls. In the old lunar calendar, Japanese-style month names (wafū getsumei) were used. Each month from January to December has its own name, so if you’re curious, be sure to look them up.

November 11

November 11 is known as “Pocky & Pretz Day” because the numbers resemble rows of Pocky or Pretz sticks. Many people might have confused it with November 1. November 11 is also designated for various other observances, such as “Caregiving Day” and “Cheese Day.”

autumn leaves

As autumn arrives, shorter daylight hours and lower temperatures reduce the chlorophyll in leaves, making red and yellow pigments more noticeable. This phenomenon is called “koyo,” or autumn foliage. Many children can’t resist picking up the beautiful fallen leaves—like yellow ginkgo and vibrant red maple—when they find them, don’t you think?

Chitose Ame (longevity candy)

Chitose-ame is pronounced “chitose-ame.” It’s a long, thin candy that symbolizes wishes for longevity and is traditionally given out during the Shichi-Go-San celebration. While it is basically received as an offering when you request prayers at a shrine, it’s also sold nowadays through online shops.