Microseason: Ground Begins to Freeze

Ground Begins to Freeze 地始凍 (Chi Hajimete Kōru) marks the current Japanese microseason and falls within Rittō (Beginning of Winter). Typically occurring from around November 12th to 16th, it is the time of year when temperatures drop enough for the earth's surface to start hardening with frost and thin ice.

The Japanese name literally means "the ground begins to freeze," and reflects a subtle seasonal change noticed underfoot. While some parts of Japan are already experiencing snowfall, especially in northern and mountainous regions, many areas are seeing their first frosts of the season. 

In traditional Japan, closely observing these seasonal shifts was important for agriculture and daily life. The seventy-two microseasons encouraged people to notice even the smallest changes in nature, using them as reminders to prepare for the colder months ahead.

For me, "Ground Begins to Freeze" marks a shift in nature that I look forward to every year: the return of our visiting swans from the north. Each year, migratory swans arrive to spend the winter in the region, their presence marking a clear shift from autumn to winter.