[For Seniors] Spring-themed quizzes: Fun trivia questions that help prevent dementia while you solve them

white

Asparagus grown without exposure to sunlight does not perform photosynthesis, so chlorophyll does not form and it remains white. The green asparagus we often see on the table has turned green through photosynthesis. Those that have grown large while remaining white are known as white asparagus.

harbinger of spring (often refers to the Japanese bush warbler, 'uguisu')

Only male bush warblers make the “hoohokekyo” call, and they do so only in spring.

clam (hamaguri)

Clams must be matched with their original halves to fit together perfectly, so they came to be eaten as a symbol evoking a close, harmonious married couple.

Meiji

Originally imported from the Netherlands in the late Edo period for carrying samurai luggage, it later spread in popularity after Itō Hirobumi presented it to the Taishō Emperor.

Children's Day

We put up koi-shaped streamers for Children’s Day, which is celebrated on May 5th every year in Japan. On this day, there’s a tradition of wishing for children’s healthy growth, and many households display carp streamers and samurai helmets. By the way, while Hinamatsuri is seen as Girls’ Day and Children’s Day is often thought of as Boys’ Day, in fact, Children’s Day is a day to celebrate all children, regardless of gender.

the first strong spring wind

In the past, a capsizing accident occurred due to these strong winds, and since fishermen had been calling them “Haru-ichi,” it came to be known as “Haruichiban,” the first strong wind of spring.

Somei Yoshino (Yoshino cherry)

Somei Yoshino is a cherry blossom cultivar that has spread throughout Japan, and it is said to account for about 80% of the cherry trees that bloom in the country. As a result, it can be seen at many famous cherry blossom viewing spots. Bearing beautiful white to pale pink flowers, the Somei Yoshino tends to bloom in unison, which is why it is cherished as a symbol of hanami (cherry-blossom viewing).