From Feb 9, 2026 to Feb 13, 2026, the corresponding solar term in the Nijūshi Sekki (24 solar terms) is 立春(Rissyun), and the corresponding microseason in the Shichijūni Kō (72 microseasons) is 黄鶯睍睆(Uguisu naku).

What Is “Uguisu naku” (黄鶯睍睆)?

"Uguisu naku" (黄鶯睍睆) is one of the seasonal periods in the traditional Japanese calendar known as Shichijūni Kō (72 microseasons). It corresponds to the second microseason of Risshun (立春, "the beginning of spring") within the Nijūshi Sekki (24 solar terms). This seasonal expression is typically used from around February 9 to February 13 each year. "Kōō" (黄鶯) refers to the Japanese bush warbler, while "kenkan" (睍睆) describes the bird singing in a beautiful voice. Together, "Uguisu naku" means "the time when bush warblers begin to sing, announcing the arrival of spring." The Shichijūni Kō (72 microseasons) further divide the Nijūshi Sekki (24 solar terms) into smaller seasonal segments, delicately capturing changes in Japan's nature and climate. Among them, "Uguisu naku" symbolizes a period when the first subtle signs of spring can be felt amid the lingering winter cold. The bush warbler is also known as Harutsuge-dori (春告鳥, "the bird that heralds spring") and has long been celebrated in Japanese waka poetry and haiku. Although the term "Uguisu naku" is rarely encountered in everyday life today, it remains a highly evocative expression for understanding Japan's deep appreciation of the seasons. In particular, it attracts attention in Japanese-style creative content, seasonal greetings, saijiki (seasonal almanacs), and articles about Japanese culture. By learning about the meaning and origins of "Uguisu naku," we gain insight into how Japanese people since ancient times have carefully observed changes in nature and woven a sense of the seasons into their daily lives.

List of Japan’s 72 Microseasons