Japanese Calendar: 5月 - 皐月（Satsuki）

In the traditional Japanese calendar, May is referred to as "Satsuki." The name's origin is subject to several theories. One suggests it's a shortened form of "Sanetsuki," signifying the month for planting rice seedlings, while another proposes "Sa-tsuki," denoting the month dedicated to rice planting. The character "皐" in "Satsuki" symbolizes rice offerings to the gods, aligning with the month's agricultural significance. May's Satsuki season honors the deity of paddy fields amid the lush greenery of early summer.

In tea-producing regions, May also marks the tea-picking season. New buds are typically harvested around the 88th day from the beginning of spring, often falling in early May, though variations occur based on regional and annual temperatures. The 88th night is considered especially auspicious, featuring the lucky number "eight" twice. So the tea which is picked on this night is treasured as a symbol of longevity and good fortune, believed to ward off misfortune throughout the year.