Major Heat (Dàshǔ)
The hottest time of year — Taiwan is frequently visited by typhoons during this period.
Major Heat (Dàshǔ) — Dates by Year
| Year | Gregorian Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 7/22 | Mon |
| 2025 | 7/22 | Tue |
| 2026← this year | 7/23 | Thu |
| 2027 | 7/23 | Fri |
| 2028 | 7/22 | Sat |
| 2029 | 7/22 | Sun |
| 2030 | 7/23 | Tue |
Introduction
Major Heat (Dàshǔ) is the twelfth solar term, occurring around July 22–24 when the sun reaches 120°. This is the peak of summer heat, falling during the "middle fu" of the Three Fu Dog Days — the most sweltering and oppressive period of the year. After Major Heat, the heat gradually diminishes as the calendar approaches Start of Autumn.
Climate in Taiwan
Around Dàshǔ, temperatures generally reach 35°C or above across Taiwan, with Kaohsiung and Taitung potentially hitting 38–40°C — Taiwan's hottest period. Major typhoons historically strike Taiwan in July–August. The urban heat island effect makes Taipei Basin especially stifling, and heat advisories are frequently issued.
Traditional Customs
In Taiwan, eating xiāncǎo (grass jelly) is a Major Heat tradition. Grass jelly and grass jelly tea are classic Taiwanese cooling remedies; major production areas include Miaoli and Hengchun. Major Heat is also pineapple harvest peak — fruit farms bustle with picking, and pineapple cake, vinegar, and enzyme products fill the markets. Barbecue, shaved ice, and poolside activities peak in popularity.
Wellness
Major Heat wellness prioritizes preventing heatstroke and protecting the heart. TCM's sanfu patch therapy concludes with its final application during Major Heat, completing the year's course of treating cold-type conditions. Eat lightly: duck (cooling in nature) suits Major Heat better than chicken (warming). Mung bean soup, watermelon, and winter melon tea are natural cooling remedies. The elderly and those with cardiovascular conditions must be especially vigilant; keep indoor spaces around 26°C.