Unagi on Summer's "Doyo no Ushi no Hi"

“Doyo no Ushi no Hi” falls during the summer doyo period, the stretch of days before Risshū (the start of autumn) when the heat is at its most intense. Within this period, the day that aligns with the zodiac sign of the Ox becomes the well‑known midsummer marker celebrated across Japan. Most years there are actually two dates, but every second to third year there is only one date as in the case in 2026: July 26th.

For centuries, people have turned to foods that help restore energy during the oppressive heat. There is a saying "Doyo no ushi no hi", 「丑の日にちなんで、“う”から始まる食べ物を食べると夏負けしない」which at its core means eating foods that start with the letter 'u' on Ox day will help you fight the summer heat and fatigue that comes with it.

The most iconic 'u' food is unagi, valued for its rich nutrients. Hence, unagi is deeply associated with the Summer's "Doyo no Ushi no Hi" and remains a custom in modern times.