1.
gap period between harvests
The period between the end of one harvest and the beginning of the next, when supplies are low.
2.
off-season, slow period, transition period
A period of reduced activity or supply between two busy seasons or product cycles.
端境期 refers to a gap or transition period.
Etymology
From 端 (edge) + 境 (boundary) + 期 (period), literally 'boundary-edge period'.
Originally referred specifically to the agricultural period between rice harvests when old rice was depleted and new rice wasn't yet available.
Usage
Now broadly used for any off-season or transition period in business, tourism, retail, etc.
Common patterns
Related Words
Compare:
季節の変わり目 (change of seasons)