February 2004

Clay Bells of this month　February 2004

Plum & Bush warbler

　In Japan, February is the coldest month in a year. Sometimes we have much snow, and we don't want to go out. However, in February, the plum blossoms will begin to bloom and a bush warbler will come to sing better and better. Spring will come near soon. I wish that such a day is coming soon.

plum blossoms
Yamanashi Pref. Asama Jinjya Shrine

Bush warbler
Kyoto Pref.

Can you image a plum's seed with this clay bell?

February is also the season of taking an examination. Almost all the universities and high schools perform an entrance examination around this time. Tenjin-sama is one of the most popular gods in Japan. Many students come to pray for their experimental success. Additionally the plum blossoms are the symbol of Tenjin-sama.