The date of the holiday is not officially declared until February of the previous year, due to the need for recent astronomical measurements.
It is one of two points during the year, the other being in the autumn, where the daylight and night hours are of equal length, and is the official change of the seasons.
The Japanese would also take the time to renew their lives by cleaning their homes and making life changes such as starting or finishing school or a new hobby.
Today Shunbun no Hi is a national holiday and the majority of Japanese will have the day off work to celebrate with their families.
Some people will still visit their loved ones' grave sites, sweep the gravestone clear of debris, and often leave offerings of food or fresh cut flowers.It is common for followers to eat a sweet confection known as botamochi (ぼたもち) that is often used as an offering at shrines, temples, and graves all across Japan during Higan.