1.
winter solstice
The day with the shortest period of daylight and the longest night of the year, occurring around December 21-22 in the Northern Hemisphere. In Japan, it is traditionally associated with eating kabocha squash and taking yuzu baths.
今年の冬至は12月22日だ。
This year's winter solstice is December 22nd.
冬至にはかぼちゃを食べる習慣がある。
There is a custom of eating kabocha squash on the winter solstice.
冬至を過ぎると、少しずつ日が長くなっていく。
After the winter solstice, the days gradually get longer.
The shortest day and longest night of the year, occurring around December 21-22 in Japan.
JAPANESE CUSTOMS:
- 柚子湯: taking a bath with yuzu citrus fruit, believed to ward off illness
- かぼちゃ: eating kabocha squash for good health and good luck
- Traditionally, eating foods with "ん" in the name on this day brings luck
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 冬至の日: the day of the winter solstice
- 冬至を迎える: to reach the winter solstice
- 冬至を過ぎる: to pass the winter solstice
CONTRAST:
- 夏至: summer solstice (longest day)
- 春分: spring equinox
- 秋分: autumn equinox