【Koyomi】 November 2, 2024
72 Kou｜Kaedetsuta Kibamu 七十二侯｜ 楓蔦黄（もみじつたきばむ）
Today, I felt the quiet transition of autumn deepen, as I noticed the first signs of leaves turning red and yellow. It’s the season called “Kaedetsuta Kibamu,” when maples and vines slowly change color, creating beautiful scenery.
今日は、秋が深まる静かな移ろいを感じ、葉が赤や黄に染まり始めた最初の兆しを見つけました。これは「楓蔦黄（もみじつたきばむ）」と呼ばれる時期で、楓や蔦がゆっくりと色づき、美しい景色を作り出します。
The Meaning and Timing of Kaedetsuta Kibamu
“Kaedetsuta Kibamu” represents the late phase of the seasonal period called “Shomon” in the traditional Japanese calendar, which falls between November 2 and November 6. During this short period, maple and ivy leaves begin their vibrant transformation, a reminder of nature’s beautiful cycle as trees begin their journey into dormancy. Rather than producing chlorophyll for photosynthesis, they show their brilliant colors as they prepare to rest, marking the start of a season of quiet beauty.
楓蔦黄の意味と時期
「楓蔦黄（もみじつたきばむ）」は、日本の七十二候で「霜降（そうこう）」の末候にあたり、11月2日から11月6日頃にあたります。この短い期間、楓や蔦の葉が鮮やかに色づき始め、樹木が休眠へと向かう最初の姿を見せてくれます。光合成のために葉緑素を作り出すことをやめ、美しい色彩を表し始めるこの時期は、静かな美しさの季節の始まりを告げます。
Why Leaves Change Color and the Best Viewing Time
As autumn deepens, trees stop producing chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for green leaves, allowing red, yellow, and orange hues to shine through. It typically takes about three to four weeks from the beginning of the color change to reach the peak season for autumn foliage. This delayed process means that mid to late November is the ideal time to enjoy vibrant views of autumn leaves, perfect for leisurely strolls and hikes in nature.
葉が色づく理由と見頃の時期
秋が深まるにつれて、樹木は葉緑素の生産を止め、赤や黄色、橙色の色彩が際立ちます。色づき始めてから3〜4週間ほどで見頃を迎えるため、11月中旬から下旬が紅葉のピークとされ、自然の中での散策やハイキングに最適な時期です。
The Tradition of Autumn Leaf Viewing
The custom of “momijigari,” or autumn leaf viewing, dates back to the Heian period, reflecting Japan’s long appreciation for seasonal beauty. Nobles and poets would gather to enjoy the scenery and compose poetry, inspired by the red maples and golden vines around them. Today, the tradition continues as people across Japan and visitors alike enjoy scenic spots, bringing a sense of peace and connection to nature.
紅葉狩りの歴史
紅葉狩りの歴史は平安時代に遡り、日本の季節の美を愛でる心が表れています。貴族や詩人たちは、赤や黄金色に染まる木々に囲まれながら景色を楽しみ、和歌を詠むために集まったとされています。今日ではこの伝統は受け継がれ、全国各地で美しい紅葉スポットが人々の心を癒し、自然とのつながりを感じさせています。