November 12th – November 16th, 2025 is Winter –RITTO (Beginning of winter)-56th KOU “Land starts to freeze”
The frost has finally started, but actually it’s not “Land starts to freeze” yet.
The frost on the fluff of the dandelion that missed its flight has melted, creating polka dots. They sparkle and shine.
The HANAMIZUKI (dogwood) leaves in the garden have turned deep brick red and dark crimson. Spray mums are blooming with flowers in a variety of colors, including purple, yellow, pink and others.
In my kitchen garden, the SATOIMO (taro) stalks are turning brown. The HAKUSAI (Chinese cabbage) is a two-tone green and white. I love the glossy bright red of the TOGARASHI (chili peppers).
I spotted a JHOBITAKI (Daurian redstart), a winter bird. Its orange tail is beautiful.
Recently, the temperature has dropped to around 3°C in the mornings, but there is plenty of sunshine during the day. It truly feels like “KOHARUBIYORI (Indian summer).”
On days like this, it’s before land starts to freeze, why not enjoy the colors that are unique to this time of year?
