In Japan, it’s O-higan: 7 days period of Buddhist holidays, which is 3 days before and after the autumn equinox. O-higan (お彼岸) means “the other side of river: the world of enlightenment (nirvana).”  There are Spring O-higan and Autumn O-higan in a year and each has different meaning; we praise nature and celebrate our lives on Spring equinox, and we honor the memories of ancestors on Autumn Equinox.  Traditionally, people in Japan celebrate this period of O-higan visiting family grave, inviting Bhuddist monk home to have him read Heart Sutra to pray for ancestors, and eating O-hagi, a mochi rice cake covered in sweet azuki beans.

I made this black sesame O-hagi, decorated with my little brush strokes and fresh Morning Glory from the garden, and welcomed Bhuddist monk’s visit for his service.

Happy O-higan and silver week to you all!