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November 7 marks a special milestone on the traditional Japanese calendar known as Rittō (立冬)—literally translating to "the beginning of winter."

You might look outside at the autumn foliage still clinging to the trees and wonder, "Winter already?" Yet, this early seasonal marker reflects a deeply poetic Japanese way of observing the subtle rhythms of nature.

1. The Wisdom of the 24 Micro-Seasons

Beyond the standard four seasons, Japan has long cherished an ancient lunisolar calendar called Nijūshi Sekki (二十四節気), which divides the year into 24 distinct seasonal phases, each lasting about two weeks.

Rittō is the 19th phase. Rather than announcing the arrival of freezing blizzards, it serves as a gentle nudge from nature—a reminder to notice the crispness in the morning air, pull out our favorite wool coats from the closet, and begin preparing our homes and bodies for the colder months ahead.

2. "Koharubiyori": The Gift of "Little Spring"

Even as the calendar turns toward winter, early November often blesses us with days of breathtakingly clear skies and gentle, golden sunshine.

In Japan, this phenomenon is called Koharubiyori (小春日和), which translates to "Little Spring Weather"—very similar to what English speakers call an Indian Summer. Just yesterday, we were treated to that exact kind of warm, lovely koharubiyori weather. There is something uniquely comforting about stepping outside into the crisp November air and feeling the soft, lingering warmth of the sun on your shoulders.

3. Stepping Outside This Weekend

Before the true chill of December sets in, this transitional window is one of the best times of the year to be outdoors.

Whether it is taking a morning stroll through a bayside park with a warm cup of coffee, kicking through fallen leaves, or running around on the grass with your kids, taking a moment to breathe in the clear autumn air is deeply refreshing.

As Rittō arrives, may you enjoy the quiet transition of the seasons and soak up every bit of this golden weekend sunshine!