Microseason: Wagtails Sing

The 44th microseason, of 72, in Japan is Wagtails Sing 鶺鴒鳴 (Sekirei Naku). It is the second microseason of the White Dew 'Hakuro' Solar term, when mornings and nights cool down considerably and dew is common in the morning. In 2026, "Wagtails Sing" is the five days from September 12th to 16th. 

This micro-season is named for the wagtail, whose call becomes more apparent at this time of year. Their bright, ringing voices carry easily and their quick, bobbing movements are easy to spot along riversides, park paths, and even the edges of quiet roads. Wagtails are present year-round, but during White Dew their behaviour stands out more Their calls become one of the small, cheerful signs of early autumn.

While the swells of typhoons can still be felt, particularly this year, the humidity recedes, bringing the "contours of autumn" into sharp relief. Early rice harvests continue. But much of the rice is yet to be harvested, so the rice fields are turning a golden color, and the rice ears bow low with the weight of the grain. Farmers check the fields more frequently now, watching moisture levels and timing the harvest for the coming weeks. 

Higanbana (Cluster Amaryllis / Red Spider lilies) start to push up from the soil. This year, you can already find some with bright red clusters, but it will be later in the month when you can see them in full bloom. Just like the previous microseason, fresh pears, grapes and early apples are available in the supermarkets.