Auroras and Early Modern Japanese Society: Responses to and Perceptions of the “Red Vapor” in 1770 Shrines’ Annual Events : Seasonal Celebration Rites

Key Points

• This research aims to explore how the aurora borealis was perceived by Japanese society during the Edo period.
• Analyzed observation records of the aurora borealis from September 1770.
• Examined the cultural contexts of seasonal celebration rites at shrines during this period.
• Investigated responses to the phenomenon in historical documentation.
• Japanese society had distinct interpretations of the aurora borealis as a rare occurrence.
• Cultural significance was attributed to the 'red vapor' during shrine events and seasonal celebrations.
• The observation influenced rituals and beliefs around astronomical phenomena.