September 23 is Autumnal Equinox Day in Japan in 2026, a day to honour ancestors and remember those who have died. The equinox occurs at 09:05 JST.
しのぶ
Shinobu
To remember someone with affection
Language note:
In this remembrance sense, しのぶ (shinobu) is commonly written 偲ぶ (shinobu). 忍ぶ (shinobu) has the same pronunciation but means to endure or conceal oneself.
A name, a story or a small ritual can keep a connection present.
Practice:
大切な人をしのんで、思い出を語る。
Taisetsu na hito o shinonde, omoide o kataru.
Share memories in affectionate remembrance of someone dear.
Sources:
National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ) — 2026 seasonal calendar: https://eco.mtk.nao.ac.jp/koyomi/yoko/2026/rekiyou262.html
Cabinet Office: Japanese national holidays: https://www8.cao.go.jp/chosei/shukujitsu/gaiyou.html
Cabinet Office: purposes of national holidays: https://www8.cao.go.jp/chosei/shukujitsu/gaiyou/kaku.html
Kanjipedia — 偲ぶ (shinobu), affectionate remembrance: https://www.kanjipedia.jp/kotoba/0002788800
Kanjipedia — 忍ぶ (shinobu), enduring or concealing oneself: https://www.kanjipedia.jp/kotoba/0005461700