師走 (Shiwasu): The Running Monk

Until Japan adopted the western (solar) calendar system in 1873, it used a modified version of the Chinese (lunar) calendar. Even now, the Japanese calendar is a rather complex mix of traditional and modern systems. For example, many places, including banks, still use the Imperial Reign system for years (This year, 2006, is Heisei 18–the 18th year of the current Emperor’s “Reign”).

Another tradition that has continued is the naming of months. This month, December, is called, “十二月” (”Juu Ni Gatsu,” or “The 12th Month”). But another name for this month is “師走”, (”Shiwasu,” or “The running monk/teacher”). It means that everyone is so busy in December, that even monks and teachers must run.

The New Year Holiday is the most important holiday in Japan. Thanksgiving, of course, is an American holiday. And Christmas is mostly a commercial holiday. Ironically, Christmas in Japan is more of a romantic holiday, like Valentine’s Day in the US.

To be honest, I don’t have much first-hand knowledge about New Year’s Day in Japan, because I am never really here to celebrate it. I have left Japan for the holidays for the last couple years, but I was here for New Year’s Day in 2004. It was an amazing thing to see: Tokyo was as close to a ghost town as I’ve ever seen. Many people go back to their hometowns to be with their families. New Year’s is a time for families. People go to Shrines and Temples, which is why monks and priests are especially busy. People who practice traditional art forms, such as calligraphy, music, art, etc., celebrate their first action of the new year. There seems to be an idea that the first view of the new year is important. Some people go to a mountain to see the sunrise.

At any rate, today, I will be heading the airport very soon. For me, Shiwasu is more like mid-November to mid-December. Actually, most of the year is that busy! But I am finally on vacation now. As soon as I make my flight and I am in my seat, my month (or longer) of running will be over. It’s almost time…

My next post will be from the US. I might not post for a couple days, so Merry Christmas!

If you would like to learn more about the Japanese Calendar system, check out this Wikipedia article:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_calendar