What is a common growing season for sake rice in Japan?

The common growing season for sake rice in Japan is in the spring. After the cold winter months, rice planting typically begins in late April to early May, when the climate becomes warmer and more suitable for growth. This period allows the rice plants to establish themselves and grow during the warmer temperatures of the summer months, ultimately leading to a harvest in the fall.

Spring is crucial for sake rice development as it is when seedbed preparation and planting occur, and the seedlings begin to take root. As the rice continues to mature through the summer, the weather conditions of warmth and moisture are vital in producing high-quality sake rice that has the starch content necessary for sake brewing. The timing of these agricultural practices aligns perfectly with Japan's climate patterns, allowing farmers to maximize yield and quality.

While winter would be too cold for rice growing, and summer places significance on the maturing phase rather than planting, fall primarily marks the harvest season. The function of spring in the rice cultivation cycle makes it the correct answer in this context.