Homonym: Higan (Equinox)
Higan is a traditional Japanese Buddhist observance that occurs during the spring and autumn equinoxes. It is a time for honoring ancestors and deceased loved ones, reflecting on the cycle of life and death. The term "Higan" translates to "the other shore," symbolizing the transition from the suffering of this world to the peace of the afterlife.
During Higan, families visit graves, clean them, and offer flowers, food, and incense. This practice is rooted in the teachings of Buddhism, emphasizing compassion and remembrance. The observance encourages individuals to contemplate their own lives and the impermanence of existence.