Major Heat (大暑) — Chinese Solar Term Meaning & Traditions

Chinese Solar Terms Usually falls on July 23 each year · Updated for 2026

Major Heat (大暑, pronounced "dashu") is one of the 24 solar terms of the traditional Chinese calendar. The hottest days of the year; slow down, hydrate and let effort follow the shade.

Major Heat Energy & How to Use It

Summer terms are full and fiery: action, visibility and expansion. Align with them by doing visible work in your coolest hours and letting warmth carry your confidence.

Ways to Honor Major Heat (大暑)

• Write one line about what this turning point means for your current goals.
• Eat with the season — for this solar term choose the freshest, most seasonal food you can find.
• Write one line about what this turning point means for your current goals.

When Major Heat Falls

Major Heat arrives around July 23 each Gregorian year (07-23). In 2026 it falls in early-to-mid July, marking the shift from the previous term (Minor Heat) toward Start of Autumn.