Introduction
The teru teru bōzu. Could that be the best way to deal with rainy weather?
Personal Preferences
Umbrellas have always given me mixed feelings. Despite their intended purpose, they frequently leave me wetter when I try to close them after reaching my car and dealing with the resulting drips and dampness is inconvenient. Many people worldwide often use umbrellas, particularly in Japan, where they have established a specific set of rules for proper umbrella usage. However, I’ve discovered a better rain gear solution: Frogg Toggs ponchos. They allow me to embrace the wetness only when I remove the poncho, making rainy days more bearable.
Umbrella Usage and Japanese Culture
People in Japan commonly use umbrellas, and they emphasize the significance of umbrella etiquette in their everyday life. The Japanese have developed a distinct approach to using umbrellas, emphasizing proper behavior and respect.
A Weather Charm?
As I looked into rain-related folklore, I came across the interesting tradition of teru teru bōzu. People use handmade dolls resembling ghosts or monks to bring good luck and ward off rain. While I recognize that I have no control over the weather, I’ve noticed an intriguing pattern: whenever I wear my poncho, the rain appears to stop. Of course, this is entirely coincidental, but it got me thinking about the beliefs underlying the weather charm.
The Mystery of Teru Teru Bōzu
Do the Japanese truly believe that this charm can influence the weather, or is it just a cute tradition for children? Is it similar to mythical figures in Western cultures, such as the tooth fairy, and the Japanese intend to distract children from their weather-related fears? (e.g., the ruination of a planned outing) Given Japan’s rich cultural heritage and belief in kami (spirits), some may genuinely believe that the little dolls have the power to bring about a sunny day.
Pop Culture and Teru Teru Bōzu
Teru teru bōzu has also made an impression on Japanese popular culture, particularly anime. Non Non Biyori Repeat, episode four, contains a memorable depiction. Renge-chan, the main character, is dressed in a white raincoat and fashions a mask out of a paper plate to communicate with the sun, hoping to get better weather to ride her new bicycle.
Closing Thoughts
As I question my hypothesis about my poncho transforming me into a teru teru bōzu, I find myself in the middle of a stormy day full of errands. Regardless, perhaps my blog post will shed light on cultural differences when it comes to dealing with the weather.
