On March 5, 2025, Japan celebrated 'Keichitsu,' marking the seasonal shift when hibernated insects sense rising temperatures and begin to emerge from their winter slumber. This time-honored event recognized the arrival of spring, embodying the natural rebirth found during this period.
One of the notable locations honoring this tradition is the Kasukabe pine field located in Saitama Prefecture, where over 600 Matsunami trees line 1.5 kilometers of the picturesque Nikko Highway. The beauty of these trees has earned the area national scenic designation, drawing appreciation from locals and visitors alike.
On this day, gardeners undertook the annual task of removing the protective coverings known as 'komo' previously wrapped around the trunks of the pines. These coverings help safeguard the trees from insects during the harsh winter months, and their removal coincides with the warmth of 'Keichitsu.'
Despite encountering challenging weather, including rain showers and remnants of snow from the night before, skilled workers demonstrated their commitment to this tradition, unfurling the 'komo' with practiced hands. The dedication is evident among the professionals involved, particularly 74-year-old Mr. Masatsugu Iwanaga, who expressed his resolve about the task, stating, "Every year, we continue to do this, whether it snows or rains, we finish on the day of Keichitsu."
For Mr. Iwanaga and his fellow gardeners, this ritual holds significant cultural importance. It serves not only to protect these majestic trees but also embodies the messages of resilience and continuity, illustrating how human efforts harmonize with the rhythms of nature.
With the task now complete, Kasukabe's scenic pine field stands ready to greet the warm spring seasons, signaling to all nearby the cyclical nature of life and the return of vibrant activity as insects awaken and life flourishes. The removal of the 'komo' is more than just maintaining aesthetic beauty; it symbolizes hope and new beginnings, reinforcing the connection between nature and culture.
Each year as nature transitions, traditions such as these reflect the timeless rituals of Japanese culture, heralding the arrival of spring and inviting the community to appreciate and nurture its relationship with the environment. With the first signs of life already apparent, the sense of anticipation grows for what lies beyond the winter months.