Japan in Spring - Vernal Equinox Day

Welcome Spring with Japan’s Vernal Equinox Day and a Creative Refresh 

image by @reddfrancisco at Unsplash

As the seasons change, Japan’s Vernal Equinox Day (春分の日, Shunbun no Hi) on March 20 is a time to embrace renewal, balance, and creativity. This national holiday marks the arrival of spring, encouraging mindfulness, appreciation of nature, and fresh beginnings—an ideal moment to reconnect with your crafting practice.

At Hands On Workshop, we love how Japanese traditions inspire creativity in everyday life. Whether you enjoy sashiko embroidery, or natural fabric dyeing, this is the perfect opportunity to welcome the new season through handmade projects and your 'me' time. 

The Art of Balance: Mindful Crafting for Spring

Just as the equinox represents the balance of day and night, engaging in Japanese crafts can bring harmony to our busy lives. Traditional activities on this holiday include visiting ancestors’ graves, deep cleaning the home, and preparing seasonal meals—practices that reflect both wabi-sabi philosophy and the beauty of imperfection.

Why not incorporate this spirit into your creative space? Try free form sashiko stitching to give new life to old fabrics, embracing the Japanese concept of sustainability and slow fashion.

image by Masaaki Komori @gaspanik

Refresh Your Creative Space for the New Season

Spring is also the perfect time to organise your craft supplies, refresh your fabrics, and start a new project. Whether you’re exploring Japanese textile techniques, experimenting with natural dyes, or simply mending and upcycling, this season invites a fresh perspective.

Let Vernal Equinox Day inspire your next handmade project. Browse our collection of Japanese craft supplies and embrace the beauty of spring through creativity