noun
the five night watches; fifth watch of the night (approx. 3am to 5am)
Archaic term from the traditional Chinese timekeeping system, dividing the night into five two-hour watches. The fifth watch corresponds roughly to 3am–5am. Used in historical or literary contexts.
五更は夜明け前の最も暗い時間帯を指す。
五更 refers to the darkest period just before dawn.
古典文学では、五更の鐘
In classical literature, scenes where the bell of the fifth watch rings are common.