Fish emerge from the ice

"Fish emerge from the ice", 魚上氷 (Uo kōri o izuru) in Japanese, is the third (of 72) micro season of the year, and the last of the solar term known as "Risshun". It marks the final stage of early springs onset. In 2026, and on average, it starts from February 14th, and last five days, until February 18th. 

The phrase describes the period when ice on rivers and lakes begins to loosen, allowing fish to move again beneath the surface. It isn’t meant as a literal observation in most of Japan; instead, it’s a poetic way of noticing that water is softening and life is stirring under the cold.

This micro season carries a sense of subtle renewal. The east wind has already begun to melt the ice (micro season #1), the bush warbler has started to sing (micro season #2), and now movement returns to the water. It’s a reminder that even in the coldest weeks, the season is turning, and spring is quietly preparing to arrive.