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Like sailors setting off into the unknown, the beginning of a brand new 12 months invitations us to discover uncharted waters and new territories ― setting our gaze on the metaphorical horizon of newly minted hopes and aspirations.
Separate from the astrological calendar, the place recent begins and clear slates coincide with the vernal equinox within the Northern Hemisphere, one other 12 months within the Gregorian calendar continues to be a legitimate purpose to set sail for adventures within the winter months. Furthermore, this February’s bissextile year appears like an open invitation to leap ahead with an additional day of “oomph!”
Overlook the thrill of AI and augmented actuality recirculating the information cycle — á la Pluto’s ingress into sci-fi-centric Aquarius on Jan. 21. As an alternative, let’s flip your journey bucket checklist into actuality utilizing astrology to navigate your upcoming journeys throughout Japan!
This month-to-month journey collection is sprinkled with astrological insights ― out of your solar signal to extra planetary placements ― to personalize journey locations alongside the zodiac constellations and their ruling planets.
Jigokudani gives a novel likelihood to watch wild snow monkeys enjoyable in scorching springs amid the snowy panorama. Photograph: GaijinPot Journey
From the bone-numbing chilly to cruel layers of deep snow, winter’s white-out circumstances would make it clearly abhorrent to Arians. In spite of everything, this feisty fireplace signal is the place Mars, its planetary ruler, calls dwelling and the solar ― king of the celestial heaven ― is welcomed as an honored visitor.
However Jigokudani Monkey Park within the city of Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture is the place the rambunctious ram can spot normally rowdy monkeys feeling bliss within the blistering scorching springs. Whereas Jigokudani, or “Hell Valley,” is open year-round, the prime season for catching these flushed-faced Japanese macaque monkeys is from December to March.
As heaps of steam waft above rugged snow-trimmed cliffs within the Yokoyu River valley, Arians will courageous the tough components, clutching their frozen fingers in a white-knuckle grip. Maybe they need to take a cue from the washing primates: studying to ease the stress of punishing winters through a steamy bathtub.
2. Taurus (Apr. 21-Could 21): Ashikaga Flower Park Winter Illumination
Well-known for its spectacular winter illuminations that includes tens of millions of LED lights, Ashikaga Flower Park is reworked right into a winter wonderland. Photograph: Aflânio Tomikawa/Flickr
Within the tropical zodiac, Taurus season is synonymous with the peak of spring when flowers hit peak bloom and gardens turn out to be lush landscapes of endless greenery. Come winter, although, this lavish surroundings is changed with the drab and dreary, as bushes stand naked and all of nature feels lengthy gone.
The winter illumination occasion at Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi Prefecture is the proper antidote to inject a dose of cheer for Taureans missing the luminous spring daylight. Well-known for its wisteria bushes, the flowering vine that blooms from mid-April to mid-Could, Ashikaga Flower Park replaces these barren branches and your complete premises with over 5 million razzle-dazzle LED lights.
Stroll by means of vibrant gardens bathed within the heat, golden glow of illuminations in the course of the park’s “Flower Fantasy” occasion held till Feb. 14. With their urge for food for artwork and amour, Venus-ruled Taureans will probably be wholly glad by the romantic visible centerpiece ― together with a fairytale fortress with a colourful LED fireworks spectacle.
There’s no denying the facility of flowers, together with LED flower fixtures!
Conventional thatched-roof homes within the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture with night time illuminations in winter. Photograph: Supparuj/iStock
Ever the conversationalist, Gemini’s mercurial wit and chit-chatty appeal go hand-in-hand. However the language of fingers ― the physique half dominated by Gemini ― additionally performs a pivotal function in how the celestial twins do their speaking.
The UNESCO-listed villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama in Gifu Prefecture are additionally the place fingers take centerstage with the gassho-zukuri (prayer-hands building) homes drawing hordes of day trippers annually. These slanted thatched-roof houses are the signature attraction of this sleepy mountain settlement, the place vacationers keen to flee into their “cottagecore” fantasy ― the Japanese equal of inaka kurashi (rural life) ― flock en masse.
Nonetheless, wintertime provides a shocking change in surroundings, with snow remodeling the village right into a postcard-perfect winter wonderland. This 12 months marks the thirty eighth annual Shirakawa-go Mild-Up Occasion, the place illuminated gassho-zukuri homes forged a magical glow over blankets of snow.
Like swift-footed Mercury, this can be a limited-time occasion that requires you to get your fingers on a reservation. There are six light-ups spanning January and February, with the remaining three held on Feb. 4, 12 and 18.
4. Most cancers (June 23-July 22): Nagasaki Chinatown Lantern Pageant
The Nagasaki Lantern Pageant kicks off on the Chinese language New 12 months’s Day based mostly on the Lunar calendar, which is from Feb. 10 to Feb. 24. Photograph: まちゃー/Pixta
Dominated by the moon, it’s solely becoming for Cancerians’ month-to-month journey decide to be a festivity synced with the Lunar New 12 months.
Celebrated on the primary new moon of the lunar calendar, this 12 months it falls on Feb. 10, ushering within the fierce Chinese language zodiac signal of the dragon. Though the celestial crustacean is way from ferocious, besides when flaunting its pincers, the Nagasaki Chinatown Lantern Pageant in Japan’s oldest Chinatown is the place this family-centric signal can marvel at wealthy cultural identities and long-preserved customs.
Rows of crimson glowing lanterns ― exceeding 15,000 lights in complete ― and towering artwork objects formed into auspicious animals set Nagasaki’s Chinatown aglow from Feb. 9 to 25. Minato Park, one of many central venues, is the place festival-goers can watch genuine jaodori (dragon dance) accompanied by an ensemble of gongs and drums.
The moon’s reflective nature, notably moonlight as mirrored daylight, hyperlinks the luminary with previous recollections and nostalgia. Why not welcome the Lunar New 12 months on this new moon with a slew of recent recollections?
5. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22): Kenroku-en Winter Mild-Up
Winter at Kenrokuen Backyard in Kanazawa. The backyard is listed as one of many “Three Nice Gardens of Japan.” Photograph: Sean Pavone /iStock
Leos have a eager for superlatives on the subject of attaining “the very best” ― be it incomes prestigious awards or jet-setting off to coveted locations. In fact, the signal of the kingly beast is the place the solar ― the archetypal photo voltaic hero ― reigns supreme.
So, it’s solely applicable to pick considered one of Japan’s prime three famend gardens for essentially the most regal of all of the zodiac bunch.
Kenroku-en Backyard in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture was previously closed off to commoners, functioning as an imperial backyard adjoining to Kanazawa Fort for the Maeda daimyo (feudal lords). Immediately, it’s a delegated nationwide treasure bathed in golden lights come winter, made much more spectacular at dusk with glistening snow-covered pine bushes.
An indicator of the prestigiously pruned premises is the triangular-shaped yukitsuri (snow suspension) ropes suspended through a central pole above the bushes, sitting virtually like a crown. Leonians can observe this seasonal custom in the course of the Kenrokuen Winter Mild-Up from early to mid-February between 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Your eyes will undoubtedly sparkle beneath the twinkling illuminations that seize each Leo’s and the solar’s gilded glory.
6. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Lake Towada Winter Story
Lake Towada in winter. Winter occasions round Lake Towada characteristic mild shows, fireworks and numerous winter actions. Photograph: Obanon/iStock
Breaking down the symbolism of a zodiac signal is just one a part of the puzzle when delineating a start chart. Nonetheless, Virgoans, naturally adept at dissecting and discerning, might recognize this subsequent location the place magnificence is within the particulars.
Lake Towada, the 61.1-square-kilometer caldera lake bordering Aomori and Akita prefectures, is a gemlike pool that mirrors the refined, seasonal modifications year-round. Located within the Tohoku area ― the place chilly isn’t any stranger ― winter’s arrival replaces spring’s new progress, summer season’s verdant vegetation and autumn’s fiery foliage with a skeletal forest standing nonetheless beneath a white sky.
The melancholic climate is completely suited to Lake Towada Winter Story, an occasion encircling the lake with large snow sculptures, kamakura (igloo) bars and nightly fireworks shows from Feb. 2 to 25*. Now, Virgos could also be questioning the place their signal symbolism matches into this journey decide.
The venue within the Yasumiya space is the place the symbolic Otome no Zo, or the “Maidens by the Lake” statue by poet and pioneering sculptor Kotaro Takamura commemorates the fifteenth anniversary of Towada-Hachimantai Nationwide Park. Though the double virgins appear extra of a nod to Gemini ― the opposite mutable Mercury-ruled signal ― there’s no denying the gracefully perched maidens present proof of the Virgoan’s presence.
*Lake Towada Winter Story will probably be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Otaru in winter. Photograph: GaijinPot Journey
Working beneath the Venusian precept of partnerships, Libra is the signal the place “me” meets “we.” Whereas social bonds can manifest in some ways, the signal of the celestial scales is the place intimacy trumps individualism.
Whether or not you’re planning an outing with pals, household or an intimate accomplice, the Otaru Snow Mild Path Pageant will foster emotions of togetherness on this charming port metropolis in Hokkaido. The primary venues are alongside the Otaru Canal, its brick-lined warehouses blanketed with snow resembling frosting on gingerbread homes, and the picturesque 1,600-meter-long promenade on the previous web site of the Temiya railway line illuminated with snow candles galore.
Frosty winter nights are sure to trigger crimson noses and nipped ears, however Librans can’t issue out how frigid temperatures present the basic ambiance for love. Come get slightly nearer this midwinter with the magical sight of flickering candles, glass fishing floats, and meals stalls showcasing a treasure trove of recent seafood from Feb. 10 to 17.
Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan in Hokkaido. A human-made village crafted completely of ice will materialize above the frozen shores of its namesake lake from Jan. 27 to March 10. Photograph: Daikegoro/Pixta
Scorpios have a status for profundity, which isn’t any totally different from an iceberg’s hidden depths in freezing chilly waters. Underneath conventional rulership of single-minded Mars and fashionable co-ruler of penetrating Pluto, you’ll anticipate no much less from this piercingly perceptive signal.
Subsequently, any Scorpios trying to get down this darkish winter ought to look no additional than the Ice Village at Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan in Hokkaido. A human-made village crafted completely of ice will materialize above the frozen shores of its namesake lake from Jan. 27 to March 10. Blocks of ice turn out to be clean canvases for artistry and structure, taking form right into a stark white ― virtually ghostly in look ― kotan (village) within the indigenous language of the Ainu on Japan’s northernmost island.
You’ll spot igloos and ice domes alongside an ice bar, ice lodge and ice chapel the place guests can vow timeless love. However that is solely the tip of the iceberg.
Shrouded in winter’s darkness and confronted with temperatures dropping to minus 30 levels Celsius , Scorpios will secretly enjoyment of dealing with a sculpting decide to carve their very own frozen drinkware. Afterward, sneak in some whisky or vodka for a tongue-in-cheek “on the rocks.”
Although the climate exterior could also be frightful, it’s effectively value a go to earlier than these ice constructions turn out to be too scorching to deal with ― just like the flaming crimson planet Mars ― and soften again into their watery aspect.
Have a good time winter with conventional “kamakura” (snow huts) illuminated by candles, making a serene and picturesque nightime scene in Yokote, Akita Prefecture. Photograph: Shutterstock_1099023953
Even within the darkest moments, Sagittarians hardly ever fail to lose their jovial spirit, given planetary rulership beneath Jove (Jupiter). The identical is true throughout darkish winter months that encourage the centaur to name for a joyous celebration ― be it snow, sleet or freezing rain.
This endless optimism attracts comparability to lighting a candle, an act of hope and religion amidst a tragic sack of months devoid of daylight. Therefore, the inviting sight of candlelit kamakura snow domes makes the Yokote Kamakura Snow Pageant a spot-on choice for Sagittarius ― the signal of the everlasting flame.
Held yearly on Feb. 15 and 16, this competition in Yokote Metropolis, Akita Prefecture is the place glowing orange lights, illuminating the kamakura’s ice-crystal inside, come into the limelight. Nonetheless, themes of spirituality and religious religion ― core beliefs shared by each Sagittarius, the devoted seeker, and Jupiter ― will not be misplaced as these snow huts additionally perform as snow shrines.
Hollowed snow piles, standing about two meters excessive, are stuffed with choices from amazake (candy fermented rice beverage) to mochi (glutinous rice) for the water deity enshrined inside the altar. Sagittarians will undoubtedly recognize the abundance of pleasure brimming at this winter spectacle within the snow-heavy Tohoku area.
The Sapporo Snow Pageant hosts spectacular snow and ice sculptures throughout three websites (Odori Park, Susukino and Tsudome), drawing international guests to admire the winter artistry. This 12 months marks the 74th anniversary of the competition. Photograph: GaijinPot Journey
The wise sea-goat has a knack for getting grounded ― not within the sense of punishment, though “self-discipline” is effectively inside Saturn’s area. However what if this down-to-earth signal might schedule downtime to admire gigantic ice and snow sculptures from the bottom up?
As a cardinal earth signal, Capricorns readily tackle the problem of transferring mountains. Nonetheless, the Sapporo Snow Pageant in Hokkaido’s capital is the place mountain transferring meets intricate ice-carving and snow-sculpting throughout three venues: Odori Park, Susukino Web site, and Tsudome Web site.
Held this 12 months from Feb. 4 to 11, the 74th installment of this annual competition showcases over 200 sculptures spanning numerous sizes, together with historic landmarks from the Sapporo Clock Tower to Helsinki Cathedral alongside anime characters, cute animals and star athletes like Angels pitcher Shohei Ohtani.
Put away your lengthy to-do checklist, Capricorn, and get packing for the town of Sapporo ― the place the strong chill is a heat welcome for festival-goers in frigid February.
11. Aquarius (Jan. 22-Feb. 20): Hirosaki Fort Snow Lantern Pageant
White Hirosaki Fort and its crimson picket bridge in Aomori Prefecture is a fortress with the principle tower constructed atop a hill for higher protection and showcasing lantern-lit snow sculptures within the winter, capturing the fantastic thing about northern Japan. Photograph: PixHound /iStock
Labels from misanthropy to misunderstood are steadily hooked up to Aquarians, the indifferent water bearer generally mislabeled as a water signal whereas gripping an overflowing jug.
However the aspect of air is what gives Aquarius with the correct amount of Saturnian restraint to step again and see the fowl’s-eye view.
Equally, such readability of thoughts and indifferent fashion offered safety for Japanese castles, together with the Hirayama-style Hirosaki Fort in Aomori Prefecture. Standing solemnly for over 400 years, this fortress constructed on mountainous terrain managed to outlive the Sengoku, or Warring States, Interval (1454-1573) because of its topography. And let’s not neglect how the 2 wavy strains within the Aquarius glyph can resemble jagged peaks alongside a desolate mountain vary.
Nonetheless, the defenses will come down in the course of the Hirosaki Fort Snow Lantern Pageant, held from Feb. 9 to Feb. 12. The fortress grounds ― full with terraced partitions, fortified moats, and yagura watchtowers to impede invaders ― come alive with colourful paper lanterns that includes artworks discovered on nebuta (parade floats).
The illuminations additionally embody tons of of snow lanterns and snow domes sprawling throughout the spacious grounds, which span over 610,000 sq. meters. As a humane signal, Aquarians will recognize the ample area and connectivity of neighborhood at a distance.
12. Pisces (Feb. 21-Mar. 19): TeamLab Borderless in Azabudai Hills
TeamLab Borderless opens at Azabudai Hills in Tokyo on Feb. 9, 2024. TeamLab Borderless is a world of artworks with out boundaries and a museum with no map. Photograph: Keimevo/TeamLab2 Flickr
Historically dominated by Jupiter ― whose bounty is as boundless as the ocean ― and assigned fashionable rulership beneath Neptune ― the ocean god who is aware of no borders ― Pisceans’ month-to-month journey decide is, no doubt, TeamLab Borderless (TeamLab Borderless in Odaiba was completely closed on Aug. 31, 2022).
Reopening this 12 months in Azabudai Hills on Feb. 9, this digital artwork exhibition is a technicolor daydream the place the constraints of two-dimensional artworks dissolve into immersive 3D chambers. Working exterior the constraints of an image body, this everlasting exhibit devotes area and defies notion with a various array of multi-sensory works, together with three newly unveiled installations.
Inspiring museum-goers to “wander, discover and uncover,” Pisces is aware of finest the way it feels to occupy a world with out boundaries ― be it the blurring of phantasm and actuality or transcending bodily borders, beliefs and backgrounds.
We could be dwelling in a simulation, however TeamLab Borderless is the place our dystopian age of misinformation and AI-generated deep fakes takes on a utopian aptitude, remodeling right into a technological wonderland.
Jessica Sayuri Boissy is a working towards conventional Western astrologer in Tokyo. She has a Practitioners Degree Horary Certificates from The College of Conventional Astrology (STA) and earned her Fundamentals Certificates for natal and predictive methods at Kepler School.
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