Nihyakuhatsuka -- The 220th Day

What Is Nihyakuhatsuka?

Around September 10th is "Nihyakuhatsuka" ("the 220th day") in Japan, a zassetsu (seasonal marker supplementing the twenty-four solar terms) falling 220 days after Risshun. Alongside Nihyakutoka, it has long served as a marker for the height of typhoon season, regarded by farmers as a day requiring caution.

A Second Wave of Caution, Ten Days After Nihyakutoka

Nihyakuhatsuka, paired with Nihyakutoka ten days prior, has long served as an important marker in the farming calendar.

• Its place on the calendar: falling 220 days after Risshun, it is counted among the "zassetsu," seasonal markers that supplement the twenty-four solar terms
• Its connection to typhoon season: statistically, this period coincides with when typhoons are especially likely to make landfall in Japan, making it, together with Nihyakutoka, a day of caution
• Its significance for rice farming: with the rice harvest drawing near, a typhoon during this period could cause serious damage directly affecting yield, making it a period of particular vigilance

The Harvest That Awaits Beyond Nihyakutoka and Nihyakuhatsuka

Once these two days of caution have safely passed, the bountiful autumn harvest lies just ahead. Carrying both a warning about typhoons and a wish for a good harvest, this calendar day remains a meaningful marker in farming communities across Japan.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Check typhoon updates and your disaster preparedness supplies
• Learn about the calendar system behind Nihyakutoka and Nihyakuhatsuka
• Learn about the relationship between rice farming and typhoon season
• Look ahead to the flavors of autumn as the harvest season approaches

A Glimpse of Autumn's Bounty at the Close of Typhoon Season

Once the day of caution known as Nihyakuhatsuka has passed, the heart of the harvest season draws steadily nearer. Let September 10th be a chance to stay prepared for the remainder of typhoon season, while looking forward to the joy of the harvest to come.