Ii Mum no Hi — Good Mum Day
OtherWhat Is Good Mum Day?
November 6th is "Ii Mum no Hi" (Good Mum Day) in Japan, established by OPTIMUM, a domestic association of mum growers, to promote the appeal of mums. The date comes from a pun on "ii (11) mum (6)," and also coincides with the peak blooming season for mums. The day was certified and registered by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2021.
What Exactly Is a "Mum"?
"Mum" is a common nickname for the chrysanthemum, Japan's national flower, shortened from its scientific name, Chrysanthemum.
- Origin of the word: traces back to a Greek term meaning "golden flower"
- Traditional use: thanks to its elegant appearance, it has long been used in ceremonies from weddings to funerals
- Recent trends: breeding has produced colorful varieties that work beautifully in Western-style bouquets and arrangements
Why Is November the Season for Mums?
Autumn is naturally the season when chrysanthemums bloom at their most beautiful. It's also when chrysanthemum exhibitions and festivals are held across the country — a flower the Japanese have long cherished as a symbol of the autumn season.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Pick up a single mum at a flower shop and display it in your room
- Visit a chrysanthemum exhibition or festival near you or while traveling
- Try your hand at a flower arrangement featuring mums
- Learn about the traditional Japanese culture surrounding chrysanthemums
The Beauty of Autumn, Told Through a Dignified Bloom
The chrysanthemum, long beloved in Japan, brings a quiet, dignified beauty to autumn without ever needing to be flashy. Let November 6th be a chance to bring a single mum into your everyday space and feel the changing of the season.