According to the traditional Japanese calendar, Risshun (regarded as "the first day of spring") falls on the beginning of February.
The 88th day counting from Risshun is a special ‘tea day’ known as Hachiju-hachiya (literally, “eighty-eighth night”). It is believed that drinking green tea made from tea leaves picked on Hachiju-hachiya will bring you good health for the year. Tea festivals are annually held at tea-producing areas including Kyoto and Shizuoka on the day.
In 2011, Risshun is on February 4. Counting another 88, you will find out when the special 'tea day' is.
Yes, Hachiju-hachiya in 2011 is on May 2. I will not miss drinking tea on that day!
