Image credits: Kanzilyou via Canva Japan's Summer Greeting Card - 暑中見舞い
Now that we’re nearing the end of July, we are officially in the heart of summer. That means that it’s the perfect time to send out 暑中見舞い (shochū-mimai)! Japan's Summer Greeting Card - 暑中見舞い
What Are 暑中見舞い?
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Also known as summer greeting cards, shochū-mimai are sent between family and friends in mid-to-late summer, typically in the July rainy season. As this is the hottest time of year in Japan, sending these cards is a way to show concern for the health and well-being of your loved ones.
Summer greeting cards typically take the form of postcards with images of seasonal fruits and flowers, scenes of the beach, or other hot-weather activities. You can buy these at your local post office, a stationary store, or at a chain like Hands.
A Brief History of 暑中見舞い
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Shochū-mimai are said to originate from an Edo-era tradition during Obon, an annual Buddhist event where families honour the spirits of their ancestors at their graves. Visitors returning home during this time would bring gifts to offer to the spirits of their hosts’ ancestors. These gifts would often include items like fruit, vegetables, or other perishable goods.
Once the national post system was established, the custom gradually changed from gifts and letters to postcards instead.
Card Etiquette
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Not sure how to write your summer greetings? Here is a brief outline of what to include in your shochū-mimai:
1. A Get-Well/Seasonal Greeting
The “title” or “opening” should read “暑中お見舞い申し上げます。” This roughly translates to “summer greetings to you." Write this larger than the text on the rest of the card!
2. The Main Text
In the main body of the card, write a short personalised message asking about the recipient's health and well-being. Include an update about any major life events (the birth of a child, a new job, etc.). Remember to keep the tone light and positive to spread summer cheer!
3. A Closing Greeting
Finally, close with a sign-off, wishing the recipient a pleasant summer season and good health in the hot weather.
4. The Date
Instead of a specific date (such as July 30th, 2024), write down the season, such as “mid-summer” or "late-summer." This allows for flexibility in the delivery time and extends the message across the season rather than a specific day.
For examples of shochū-mimai written in Japanese, you can check out the Japan Post Website.
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Digital Summer Greeting Cards
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If you are unable to send a physical summer greeting card, consider sending a digital version instead! Modernized shochu-may has become a trend in recent years, with many websites and apps offering customizable templates for online summer greeting cards. There are quite a few benefits to digital shochū-mimai! They can often be more personalized, allowing you to add your own pictures and stickers (perfect if you want to send a less formal greeting).
Digital shochū-mimai can be sent instantly, making it the perfect option if you don't have time to run to the post office. In addition, they are also more eco-friendly, especially if you are sending out a large number of cards.
Consider using e-cards for your shochū-mimai to save time and reduce waste this year. You can make a positive impact on the environment while still spreading joy to your loved ones!
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