How many can you solve? Test your spring knowledge with a trivia quiz about March!

Tachibana

The decorations on the tiered doll stand are derived from the “left sakon cherry and right ukon tachibana” planted at the Shishinden Hall of the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Because the tachibana is an evergreen whose leaves remain lush even in winter, it has long been regarded as a tree symbolizing longevity and as having the power to ward off evil.

all-purpose flour

In junior high schools in Okinawa Prefecture, there is a custom called “merikenko-nage,” where flour and similar substances are thrown at graduation ceremonies. It’s a traditional way of celebrating that has been practiced for over 30 years, but it’s now seen as problematic because funds are sometimes forcibly collected from younger students and because it amounts to treating food disrespectfully.

An angry person

The three attendants (shitei) among the Hina dolls are men of common birth who serve as general helpers, and unlike the courtiers, they are portrayed as openly expressive. Each is characterized by a different expression—“laughing,” “crying,” and “angry”—and they are also known as the “Three Jo-go” (Sannin Jōgo).

Name of God

The English word “March” derives from Mars, the Roman god of war. In ancient Rome, March marked the beginning of the year, and as winter ended and the snow melted, armies could mobilize—ushering in the “season of war.” Hence, the month was named after the god of war.

rockfish (Japanese black rockfish)

In the past, herring were famous as a harbinger of spring because vast schools would swarm to coastal areas like Hokkaido to spawn when spring arrived. In recent years, however, their catch has declined, and when people speak of “spring herald fish,” rockfish (mebaru) is more often mentioned. Mebaru is a fish that comes into season around March to May and is delicious simmered.

clam (hamaguri)

Clam shells will never fit perfectly with any shell other than the one they originally paired with. Because of this trait, they are seen as a symbol of marital harmony—spending a lifetime with a single partner—and are eaten during the Doll Festival to wish for a girl’s happy marriage.

cosplay

Kyoto University’s graduation ceremony is famous for graduates attending in unique cosplay. Costumes inspired by anime characters and that year’s current events—brimming with wit and humor—are featured by the media every spring as a seasonal tradition.