From Jul 28, 2026 to Aug 1, 2026, the corresponding solar term in the Nijūshi Sekki (24 solar terms) is 大暑(Taisho), and the corresponding microseason in the Shichijūni Kō (72 microseasons) is 土潤溽暑(Tsuchi uruoute mushiatsushi).

What Is “Tsuchi uruoute mushiatsushi” (土潤溽暑)?

"Tsuchi uruōte mushi atsushi" (土潤溽暑) is the second microseason of Taisho (大暑, "Major Heat") within the Nijūshi Sekki (24 solar terms). It typically falls each year between around July 28 and August 1. The Shichijūni Kō (72 microseasons) is a traditional Japanese seasonal calendar that divides the year into 72 finely observed changes in nature. Among them, "Tsuchi uruōte mushi atsushi" refers to the time when the oppressive heat and humidity of summer reach their peak. The phrase literally means "the earth grows damp and the air becomes stiflingly humid," vividly capturing the atmosphere of the Japanese summer after the rainy season has ended. During this period, the ground and soil retain heavy moisture and heat, and temperatures often remain high even at night, resulting in lingering tropical nights. Because of this, extra caution against heatstroke becomes especially important. Since ancient times, the Japanese people have recorded these subtle shifts in nature within the calendar, using them as seasonal wisdom to guide agriculture and daily life. By learning the expression "Tsuchi uruōte mushi atsushi," one can sense the uniquely poetic sensitivity and refinement embedded in the Japanese language, even amid the exhausting summer heat. Even today, as climate change continues to intensify seasonal extremes, the oppressive humidity of this period grows more severe year by year, making this traditional seasonal expression newly relevant in modern times.

List of Japan’s 72 Microseasons