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2026 Schedule
When is the "Day of the Ox" during the "Doyo" period in 2026?
The Day of the Ox during the Dog Days of Summer does not fall on the same date every year. It is not a fixed date like a national holiday; rather, it is determined by the calendar for that particular year.
To begin with, “Doyō” refers to the approximately 18-day period preceding the start of spring, summer, fall, and winter. Of these, the summer Doyō refers to the approximately 18 days before the start of fall. Furthermore, “Ushi no Hi” is one of the days that occur every 12 days according to the Chinese zodiac.
In other words,The day when the summer Doyō period and the Day of the Ox coincide is known as the “Summer Doyō Day of the Ox.”is called.
Normally, even in years when there is a “Second Ox Day”—in 2026, there will be only one
Since the "Doyo" period lasts about 18 days, there may be two "Ushi no Hi" days in some years. In this case, the first is called "Ichino-Ushi" and the second is called "Nino-Ushi."
However, during the Summer Doyō period of 2026, the Day of the Ox will beOnly once, on Sunday, July 26That is why there is no “Second Ox” in 2026.
2026 Annual Calendar of the "Doyo no Ushi no Hi" Days
Actually, “Doyo no Ushi no Hi” isn’t limited to summer. In 2026, there will beA total of 5 timesThere is the Day of the Ox.
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★ Summer Doyō (Main)
Sunday, July 26
In 2026, there will be only one occurrence; there will be no “Second Ox.”
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Autumn Doyō
Friday, October 30
A Day for Connoisseurs That Coincides with the Peak Season for Wild Eel
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Winter Doyō
Tuesday, January 27
Also known as “Kan no Ushi”
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Spring Doyō (First Ushi, Second Ushi)
April 21 and May 3
In the spring of 2026, there will be two Ox days.
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Origins and History
Why do people eat eel on the Day of the Ox during the Dog Days of Summer?
The custom of eating eel on the Day of the Ox during the Dog Days of Summer is,Genius Marketing Strategies from the Edo PeriodThat is where it originated. However, behind this was the solid, empirical knowledge—held by the Japanese for over 1,000 years—that “eel is good for your health.”
Nara Period (8th century):Japan’s oldest anthology of poetry, the *Man’yōshū*, includes a poem that reads, “To combat summer weight loss, eat eel.” The nourishing properties of eel were widely recognized at least as early as the Nara period.
Mid-Edo period:Since wild eel is in season from fall through winter, eel doesn’t sell well in the summer, putting eel restaurants in a difficult position. A struggling eel restaurant owner turned to a scholar of Western learning—Gen'nai HiragaWhen I consulted with them, they suggested I post a sign in front of my shop that read, “Today is the Day of the Ox during the Dog Days.” This proved to be a huge hit, and other eel restaurants followed suit, turning it into a nationwide tradition.
Present Day:Approximately 50% of consumer spending on grilled eel is concentrated in July and August. The summer tradition of eating eel, centered around the “Day of the Ox” during the Dog Days of Summer, is deeply ingrained in Japanese daily life.
The custom of eating foods associated with the "U" sound on the Day of the Ox
Since ancient times, there has been a folk belief that “eating foods with the syllable ‘u’ on the Day of the Ox prevents summer fatigue,” and foods such as udon, umeboshi, melon, and beef were considered auspicious. Among these, eel stood out for its high nutritional value, which is why it became a staple.
Eating eel in the summer makes perfect sense
In fact, the peak season for wild eel is from fall through winter, and summer eel, which is less fatty, was traditionally a product that didn’t sell well. However, thanks to the skill of master chefs, it has been prepared to be delicious even in the summer. The custom of eating eel—which is high in protein and vitamins—during the summer, when one’s appetite tends to wane, makes perfect sense from the perspective of modern nutrition.
Food Knowledge
When Is Eel in Season? A Comprehensive Guide to the Differences Between Wild and Farmed Eel
Many people think that “the Day of the Ox during the Dog Days of Summer means eel is in season in the summer,” but that’s half true and half a misconception.The peak seasons for wild and farmed eel are completely different.
The peak season for wild eel is “fall to early winter (October–December).”
Hibernating on the riverbed. There’s no fishing at this time of year, and the fish are thin and lack flavor.
The fishing season has opened after the winter hiatus. The fish are still lean and have a light, delicate flavor. Although this isn’t the peak season for wild eel, the true art of this time of year lies in the chef’s skill in preparing them to perfection.
Starting in late summer, they begin to store nutrients, and their flesh becomes more plump. This is the time of year when eel gradually becomes more delicious.
This is the time when eels go all out to store up nutrients in preparation for hibernation and spawning. They are plump with fat, and their flavor reaches its peak for the year. “Downstream eels”—those that have begun their journey down the river—are particularly prized. The “Day of the Ox” during the autumn Dog Days (October 30, 2026) coincides with this peak season.
Fishing ends in December, and the eels return to the riverbed to hibernate, waiting for the fishing season to open the following year.
The peak season for farmed eel is “essentially year-round.”
Currently, more than 90% of the eel sold in Japan is farmed. Farmed eel, which is raised in plastic greenhouses where water temperature and quality are controlled year-round, does not have a distinct peak season, and its quality remains consistent throughout the year. If I had to say,Summer (June–August) is the peak shipping seasonThis expands your range of options.
Wild Eel vs. Farmed Eel: A Comprehensive Comparison
| Comparison Criteria | Natural | Aquaculture |
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| Season | Fall to Early Winter | Effectively year-round |
| Fat content | Light and Elegant | Firm and Straight |
| Texture | Elasticity and Chewiness | Fluffy and soft |
| Nutritional Value | Wild and farmed are roughly equivalent | |
Nutrition and Health
Why Eel Is Good for Summer Fatigue
The custom of eating eel on the Day of the Ox during the Dog Days of Summer makes perfect sense even from the perspective of modern nutrition.
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Vitamin A
One of the highest levels among fish (1,500 μg). Helps maintain healthy mucous membranes and skin, and boosts immunity.
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Vitamin B1
Converts carbohydrates into energy. Directly helps relieve summer fatigue and lethargy.
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Vitamin D
Helps with calcium absorption and strengthens bones. Supports the function of immune cells.
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DHA and EPA
Improved Blood Flow, Maintenance of Brain Function, and Lower Cholesterol
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High-quality protein
Essential for repairing and maintaining the body. Helps restore physical strength depleted during the summer (23g)
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If you're looking to eat eel in Fukuoka,
Hakata Unagiya Fujiuna Tenjin Main Store
Located along Tenjin West Street, on the first floor of the Nishitetsu Grand Hotel.
Spend a special day at one of Fukuoka City’s largest eel restaurants.
Why Fujina?
Reasons to Choose “Fujuna Tenjin Main Store” on the Day of the Ox During the Dog Days of Summer
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Domestic Live Eels · Sourced Directly from the Producer
Domestic Eel from Miyazaki and Kagoshima PrefecturesWe source our ingredients directly from the producers. The refined umami unique to Japanese produce—which cannot be found in imported goods—is the foundation of Fujina’s flavor. |
Hakata-Style Artistry in Earthenware Firing
A fusion of the Kanto-style “back-cut” and Hakata-style “direct-grilling.” The skin is crispy, and the flesh is tender and juicy. |
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Fukuoka's Famous "Seiro-mushi"
A Fukuoka specialty steamed dish served in a bamboo steamer, topped with a thick omelet made from free-range eggs from Saga Prefecture. |
100 seats; private rooms available
Located on the first floor of the Nishitetsu Grand Hotel. Features six private rooms. Ideal for families, business entertaining, and special occasions. |
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A 5-minute walk from Tenjin
A 5-minute walk from Tenjin Subway Station and the Nishitetsu Tenjin-Omuta Line. Prime location along Tenjin West Street. |
A matured sauce passed down since our founding
A light and crisp aged sauce, carefully crafted by gradually adding new ingredients. It brings out the full umami flavor of the eel. |
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
The "Day of the Ox" during the Dog Days of Summer in 2026 isSunday, July 26That's right. You only get one chance on this day. Throughout the year, there are a total of five opportunities: winter (Jan. 27), spring (Apr. 21, May 3), summer (July 26), and fall (Oct. 30).
Yes, there are. The "Doyo" periods occur four times a year (spring, summer, fall, and winter), and the "Ushi no Hi" falls during each of these periods. In 2026, there will be a total of five such days. In particular,The Day of the Ox in Autumn (October 30)It is a special day that coincides with the peak season when wild eel is at its fattest.
The peak season for wild eel isFall to Early Winter (October–December)That's right. The custom of eating eel on the "Ushi no Hi" (the Day of the Ox) during the summer "Doyo" period has nothing to do with the eel being in season; it originated as a marketing strategy during the Edo period. However, farmed eel is available year-round, and it’s just as delicious in the summer.
You can make a reservation on our official website or by phone (092-732-0606). It gets very crowded on the Day of the Ox during the Dog Days of Summer, soBook EarlyI highly recommend it.
1F, Nishitetsu Grand Hotel, 2-6-60 Daimyo, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture 810-8587 (along Tenjin Nishi-dori). It is a 5-minute walk from Tenjin Station on the Subway Kuko Line and Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station.
Restaurant Information
Hakata Unagiya Fujiuna Tenjin Main Store — Basic Information
| Store Name | Hakata Unagiya Fujiuna Tenjin Main Store |
| Address | 2-6-60 Daimyo, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka City Nishitetsu Grand Hotel 1F |
| phone | 092-732-0606 |
| Business Hours | 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. |
| Regular closing day | None |
| Access | A 5-minute walk from Tenjin Station |
| Number of seats | 100 seats (6 private rooms) |
| Payment | Cash, various credit and debit cards, PayPay |
| Parking Lot | Special Offer: 60 Minutes Free |
Sunday, July 26, 2026
On the Day of the Ox during the Dog Days of Summer, visit Fujina’s Tenjin Main Store
Live Eel, Grilled on the Grill, Steamed in a Bamboo Steamer——
Welcome the height of summer in Fukuoka with authentic eel.
Click here for reservations and details
Hours: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. / Open daily / 1st Floor, Nishitetsu Grand Hotel
