From Dec 2, 2026 to Dec 6, 2026, the corresponding solar term in the Nijūshi Sekki (24 solar terms) is 小雪(Shousetsu), and the corresponding microseason in the Shichijūni Kō (72 microseasons) is 橘始黄(Tachibana hajimete kibamu).

What Is “Tachibana hajimete kibamu” (橘始黄)?

"Tachibana Hajimete Kibamu" (橘始黄) is one of Japan's Shichijūni Kō (72 microseasons) and typically falls around December 2nd to 6th each year. The Shichijūni Kō are a traditional Japanese calendar system that further divides the Nijūshi Sekki (24 solar terms) into smaller seasonal segments, expressing the subtle changes of the year through shifts in the natural world. "Tachibana Hajimete Kibamu" literally means "the time when tachibana oranges begin to turn yellow," and it is known as a beautiful seasonal expression that evokes the arrival of winter. The "tachibana" (橘) referred to here is an ancient Japanese citrus fruit that appears in classical works such as the "Kojiki" (古事記) and the "Man'yōshū" (万葉集). As an evergreen tree, tachibana has long been regarded as a symbol of eternity and longevity, and it is also famously associated with the "Right Tachibana" tree (右近の橘) at the Kyoto Imperial Palace. As winter deepens, the sight of its fruit gradually turning a vivid yellow against the backdrop of green leaves captures a uniquely refined Japanese sense of seasonal transition. During the period of "Tachibana Hajimete Kibamu," the air becomes noticeably colder, and the chill of morning and evening sets in more firmly. At the same time, the fresh fragrance and bright color of citrus fruits bring a gentle warmth to everyday winter life. In recent years, there has been growing interest in traditional Japanese seasonal expressions such as the Shichijūni Kō and the names of the old calendar months. "Tachibana Hajimete Kibamu" is a seasonal expression that invites us, amid the busyness of daily life, to notice subtle changes in nature and rediscover the richness of Japan's four seasons.

List of Japan’s 72 Microseasons