root

Sweet and delicious when eaten, the part of the sweet potato we usually eat is the root. It’s the portion of the root that grows from the base of the leaves where nutrients accumulate, and it’s called a “kaikon.” In fact, the stem is also edible, and it’s tasty when prepared as ohitashi (blanched and seasoned greens) or tsukudani (simmered in soy sauce).

Pocky

November 11 is said to be Pocky Day. Since the number 1 resembles the shape of a Pocky stick, it was established on November 11, 1999, when the ones lined up. On this day, eating Pocky with friends and family or giving it as a gift is sure to make people happy!

Scorpio

People whose birthdays fall between October 24 and November 22 are Scorpios. If you want to see the constellation in the actual sky, it can reportedly be seen low in the southern sky around summer. Although it’s not in the options, people whose birthdays fall between November 22 and December 21 are Sagittariuses.

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

November 15th every year is Shichi-Go-San. Shichi-Go-San is an event to celebrate children’s growth and a day to pray for their healthy development. The candy often seen at Shichi-Go-San, called chitose-ame, carries the wish that, while living to 1,000 years is impossible, children will be that vigorous and live long, and that they will grow slender and long, like the shape of the candy.

Chinese cabbage

Chinese cabbage is in season from November to February, and it’s said that those harvested in the cold season are very sweet and tender. On chilly days, hot pot made with Chinese cabbage is delicious, isn’t it? When choosing a good head of Chinese cabbage, pick one that feels heavy in your hand and has outer leaves with a deep, vibrant color.

stink bug

In November, to get through the winter, they move in groups on fine days in search of food. The reason to be cautious about stink bugs is that there’s a risk of being bitten, and bites can be painful. They’re also well known for releasing a strong odor when stimulated by external factors. When dealing with stink bugs, it’s best not to provoke them; using a freezing-type insecticide is recommended.

A shape like a baby's hand

Momiji leaves can be seen in autumn; their distinctive shape looks like a baby spreading its hand. The word also appears in the nursery rhyme “Momiji,” which is often sung at preschools in the fall. Try looking for them in parks or during outdoor activities in autumn.