Here in the Northeast, we observe four seasons and either celebrate or rue the seasonal changes that dictate our wardrobe, our activities, and our house and garden projects. In Japan, however, the traditional Japanese calendar divides the year into 24 major divisions which are each split again into three for a total of 72 kō (or micro-seasons) that last around five days each. These 72 “seasons” offer a poetic journey through the Japanese year, exemplifying a culture infused with deep sensitivity and appreciation for the nuances of nature.
Here are a few of the beautifully lyrical descriptions of Japan’s seasonal changes:
Spring wind thaws the ice
Brush warbler starts singing in the mountains
First Cherry blossoms
Distant thunder
Wild geese fly north
Bamboo shoots sprout
Rotten grass becomes fireflies
Hawks learn to fly
Evening cicadas sing
Maple and Ivy turn yellow
North wind blows leaves from the trees
Gratefully shared by Betty Hanselman
Gardener’s wife
Enjoy each of the four (or 72!) seasons of the year in your very own garden paradise, carefully planned to surround you with close-at-hand beauty! Whether it be brilliant fall foliage, evergreen diversity for winter interest, spring-blooming trees, shrubs and flowers, or a swim-in waterfall for summer refreshment, our team of designers, craftsmen, and plant care-givers is ready to bring year ’round garden joy to life for you!