Japanese Symbol for

haru

spring · new beginning · youth

Readings

  • ONシュンshun
  • KUNはるharu

Meaning

Spring, springtime, youth. 春 is Japan's most celebrated season — the time of cherry blossoms, new school years, and new beginnings. It also carries connotations of youth and romance.

春分

shunbun

spring equinox

春一番

haru-ichiban

first strong wind of spring

青春

seishun

youth, springtime of life

春休み

haru-yasumi

spring break

立春

risshun

first day of spring (solar calendar)

春雨

harusame

spring rain / glass noodles

青春 (seishun — "blue spring") means the springtime of youth — the most vibrant, passionate period of one's life. Japan's academic year begins in April (spring), making 春 synonymous with new beginnings. 春一番 (haru-ichiban — first spring wind) is officially announced by the Japan Meteorological Agency, and its arrival is national news.

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