#junewagashi

Essential Japanese Seasonal Decorations - Summer

Seasonality: Mid Summer/ June

Japanese Name: Wagashi - Benibana

English Name: Traditional Japanese Confectionery - Japanese Safflower

      This benibana, 紅花 or safflower, originates in South and West Asia and was introduced by Korean Buddhist monks to Japan in the 6th and 7th century. Lately it is often grown for its oil. The most important growing area is the Yamagata prefecture, where the "Safflower Festival" (benibana matsuri 山形紅花まつり) is held every year in July.

(Text Source 1)

Essential Japanese Seasonal Decorations - Summer

Seasonality: Mid Summer/ June

Japanese Name: Wagashi - Ajisai

English Name: Traditional Japanese Confectionery - Hydrangeas

    Ajisai, 紫陽花 a.k.a. Hydrangea, is the sign of the rainy season in Japan. Another nickname for hydrangea, called nanahenge, which means seven transformations. The flower is adored and honored by most of the Japanese like they do for ume, sakura and irises. In fact, the flower was first discovered in Japan. In general, they start blooming from early June to mid July. History says hydrangeas have appeared in poems of the Nara period (710-794). During the Edo period (1618-1868), seeing the changeability of the flower, this flower was ignored by the samurai as they used to believe that it is immortal. Hydrangeas change their color with environment in the rain and this fact makes us to think of this as inconsistent, immortal, sadness of impermanence, change of mind, hopeless love and so on. Though, cluster of hydrangea blossoms symbolize enduring love, everlasting friendships, and family bonds. 

(Text Source 1)