The later part of January was traditionally called Daikan, or ‘Greater Cold’, when the winter weather truly sets in across the country. Unusually heavy snowfall has covered much of Japan during the 2020-21 winter, with some areas receiving over 9 meters before January is even halfway through. In some parts of Japan, especially the northern Tohoku region, a popular way of enjoying the cold weather is to build temporary igloo-like snow shelters and enjoy warm food and drinks inside.

The National Diet Library has more in-depth information about the traditional Japanese calendar, its origins, and the relationship to the modern-day calendar. To learn more, please visit their site: https://www.ndl.go.jp/koyomi/e/