Kusaretaru Kusa Hotaru to Naru（腐草為蛍）

The Third Micro-Season of Bōshu

Kusaretaru Kusa Hotaru to Naru (腐草為蛍) is the third micro-season within Bōshu, one of Japan's 24 seasonal divisions.

Around June 11–15, fireflies begin to appear near rivers, rice fields, and quiet watersides.

Long ago, people believed that fireflies were born from decaying grass.

While we now know this is not scientifically true, the name beautifully reflects how mysterious fireflies seemed to those who lived close to nature.

On warm summer evenings, tiny lights drift through the darkness, creating one of Japan's most beloved seasonal scenes.

Featured Artwork

About This Artwork

This artwork was inspired by the quiet beauty of firefly season in Japan.

As twilight settles over rice fields and riversides, small lights begin to appear among the summer grasses.

For centuries, fireflies have been cherished as symbols of fleeting beauty and the gentle passage of the seasons.

The artwork captures a peaceful evening moment illuminated by the soft glow of fireflies.

Seasonal Highlights

🌿 Seasonal Plants

• Tomato
• Myōga (Japanese ginger)
• Hydrangea (Ajisai)

🐟 Seasonal Foods

• Japanese flying squid (Surume-ika)

🪲 Seasonal Wildlife

• Fireflies

🎐 Seasonal Traditions

Rice-Planting Festivals
Across Japan, communities hold traditional rice-planting festivals during this season, offering prayers to the deity of the rice fields for a healthy harvest. These ceremonies celebrate both gratitude for nature and hopes for an abundant autumn.

About Japan's 72 Seasons

Japan traditionally divides the year into 24 seasonal divisions called Sekki.

Each of these is further divided into three micro-seasons, creating the 72 Seasons of Japan (Shichijūni-kō).

Each season lasts only a few days and reflects subtle changes in nature, from blooming flowers to emerging insects and ripening fruits.

This artwork is inspired by one of these beautiful seasonal moments.

Explore More Seasons →