1.
farm when sunny, read when rainy; peaceful rural life
An ideal rustic lifestyle of working in the fields on sunny days and reading indoors on rainy days; living a tranquil, self-sufficient life away from worldly concerns.
Structure: 晴 (sunny) + 耕 (cultivate/plow) + 雨 (rain) + 読 (read). The phrase describes the ideal rhythm of rural life: outdoor work during good weather, intellectual pursuits during bad weather.
Origin: This idiom reflects the Confucian ideal of the scholar-farmer who balances practical work with intellectual cultivation. It was especially romanticized in Chinese and Japanese literature.
Usage: Often used to describe:
- Retirement dreams of leaving city life
- An idealized simple lifestyle
- A balanced life combining physical and mental activities
Common patterns
Cultural note: This idiom represents a nostalgic ideal in Japanese culture, especially appealing to those tired of urban life. It's frequently mentioned when discussing retirement plans or lifestyle changes.