When the vibrant autumn leaves finish scattering, a harsh, long winter must arrive here as always.
On the edge of the pond, as if to cherish the last remnants of late autumn, the maple leaves are vying with each other for flaming colors. The vermilion reflection of the leaves is sparkling faintly on the pond surface rippled by a chilly north wind.
"Yuki-tsuri" (snow hanging) ropes have already been attached from the top of an old black-pine tree to the lower branches to prevent their breaking under heavy snow during the long snowfall season.
The winter season of Kanazawa City is the unique combination of coldness, snow, and heavy skies, which is characteristic of the Sea of Japan coast.
Kanazawa City in winter is known for its extremely few sunny days. Clouds hang low, and rain or sleet falls intermittently. This “gloomy semidarkness” is said to create a psychological harshness and endurance. But this very harshness has nurtured the unique aesthetic sensibility of this old northern city.
The beauty of preparedness and endurance, which is symbolized by the snow-hanging ropes, has mothered the unique, traditional culture, like lacquerware, Kutani-ware porcelain, gold leaf, and Kaga-yuzen textiles, that stands out against the winter darkness.
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