Microseason: Lotus Begin to Bloom

We are currently in the Shōsho 'Lesser Heat' solar term in Japan. And today, July 12th, we enter the second microseason of that solar term known as Lotus Begin to Bloom 蓮始開 Hasu hajimete hiraku. Overall, it is the 32nd microseason of the year. In 2026, it is on until July 16th. 

As the name of the micro-season suggests, this marks the period when lotus flowers begin to bloom. However, there are places in Japan, such as my own prefecture of Saitama, when the lotus begins to bloom earlier. Especially with global warming. But from around mid-July, you can see lotus flowers more readily around the country. 

This microseason carries deep spiritual resonance. The lotus has long symbolized purity, rebirth, and enlightenment, appearing throughout Buddhist art and temple ponds.  It is also deeply intertwined with the Japanese view of nature, reflected in traditional sayings connected to the flower. Including the well‑known phrase, “the lotus grows from the mud, but is not stained by it.” 

Other shifts in nature also occur in this microseason. The air grows heavier and more humid, hinting that the end of the rainy season is close. Dragonflies and frogs are in abundance now too. And the mosquitoes are unfortunately active too! Garlic harvested in May, finishes drying around mid‑July and is finally ready to enjoy. These small signs signal that midsummer has truly arrived.