February trivia quiz: three-choice questions on seasonal fun facts like Setsubun and Valentine’s Day

seaweed (specifically nori, the edible dried seaweed used in Japanese cuisine)

February 6 has been designated as Nori Day by the National Federation of Fisheries Cooperative Associations for Seaweed and Shellfish. Nori is known as a specialty product of Japan and is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is also said to help prevent lifestyle-related diseases, so it’s something we should actively include in our diets.

kamakura (snow hut/igloo)

The Kamakura Snow Festival held in Yokote City, Akita Prefecture, is a ceremony dedicated to the water deity. During the festival, nearly 100 snow huts are built mainly in the city center. Children sit inside the kamakura to serve sweet amazake and pray for family safety and business prosperity.

soba

The soba eaten on Setsubun is called “Setsubun soba.” In the Edo period, spring was considered the start of the year, so this custom became widespread across the country, but it gradually declined after the switch to the Gregorian calendar. Today, it is mainly eaten in Nagano and Shimane, regions known for producing soba.

pig

Although it's not commonly used as a motif in Japan, pigs are considered symbols of good luck and desire in Germany. Around Valentine's Day, pig-themed goods and sweets line store shelves. It's said that the custom of exchanging such items extends not only to Valentine’s Day but also to the New Year and new beginnings.

The Beatles

February 4 is known as “Beatles Day.” This comes from the nickname for the Beatles, “Feb. 4,” which abbreviates “Fabulous Four.” In Japan, June 29 is also recognized as Beatles Day.

Because the chocolate company started selling (them).

The custom of exchanging chocolates as gifts on Valentine’s Day was popularized in the early 20th century as part of commercial campaigns by chocolate companies. In particular, the practice of giving chocolates is extremely popular in Japan, where it has become common for women to give chocolates to men as an expression of gratitude or affection.

Married Couples' Day

February 2 is considered Couple’s Day. Because the two number 2s come together on this date, it was designated as a day that symbolizes “a married couple supporting one another.” For couples who are often caught up in the busyness of everyday life, it serves as an important opportunity to reaffirm their gratitude for each other.

Japanese cedar (sugi)

Cedar pollen is a very common allergen in Japan; it starts to disperse around the end of January and peaks in February. During this period, many people suffer from hay fever symptoms.

young Spanish mackerel

Sawara is known as a “shusse-uo” (a fish whose name changes as it grows), and specimens measuring about 40–50 cm are called “sagoshi.” Incidentally, “sawara” is written in kanji as 鰆. As the character combines the fish radical with “spring,” it’s known as a fish that is in season during the spring.

Giving a gift from a man to a woman

In the United States, unlike in Japan, it’s common for men to give gifts to women on Valentine’s Day. The gifts aren’t limited to chocolate—depending on the couple, they can be candy, stuffed animals, bouquets of flowers, message cards, jewelry, and more.