"The Rokuyo calendar is a traditional Japanese system that helps you select the most auspicious days for your activities."
Once you start using it, planning important events becomes much smoother and more harmonious, thanks to its insightful guidance.
The Rokuyō (六曜) calendar is a traditional Japanese system derived from the Chinese lunisolar calendar, used to predict the fortune of each day. The term “Rokuyō” literally means “six days,” referring to a repeating cycle of six specific day types that indicate auspiciousness or inauspiciousness. While originally introduced during the Heian period (794–1185), Rokuyō gained widespread popularity by the end of the Edo period and remains culturally significant in Japan today. It is especially consulted for planning important life events such as weddings, funerals, and business openings, helping people align their activities with favorable or avoid unfavorable days.
The Rokuyō cycle consists of six days, each with unique characteristics and traditional symbols. These days are calculated from the Japanese lunisolar calendar, with the cycle restarting each month in a specific order. Below is a detailed explanation of each day, including its kanji, Romanization, symbol, and meaning:
The Rokuyō days are determined based on the Japanese lunisolar calendar. The cycle starts with Senshō on the first day of the first lunar month, followed by Tomobiki on the second day, Senbu on the third, and so forth until the sixth day, Shakkō. The sequence then repeats throughout the month. For the second lunar month, the cycle restarts from Tomobiki, the third month from Senbu, continuing this pattern for all twelve months. The latter half of the year repeats the first six months’ cycle, ensuring consistent alignment with lunar phases and traditional observances.
Understanding the Rokuyō cycle allows individuals and businesses to select optimal days for significant activities. For example, Taian days are preferred for weddings and grand openings due to their strong association with good fortune. Conversely, Butsumetsu days are generally avoided for celebrations to prevent bad luck. Tomobiki days are favorable for weddings but avoided for funerals. Senshō and Senbu offer mixed luck depending on the time of day, while Shakkō is mostly avoided except around noon.
Despite the availability of modern calendars, Rokuyō remains embedded in Japanese culture. Many people still consult it before scheduling weddings, funerals, business events, and temple ceremonies. Although everyday life may not always consider Rokuyō, its influence persists in traditional customs and cultural practices. Digital Rokuyō calendar apps now make it easier than ever to access this ancient wisdom, blending historical beliefs with contemporary convenience.
Unlike other Japanese calendars, such as the lunisolar calendar which tracks months and seasons, Rokuyō focuses solely on daily fortune predictions through its six-day cycle. This makes it unique as a tool for daily decision-making and fortune-telling, complementing other calendar systems that serve broader temporal functions.
In 2025, the Rokuyō cycle continues its traditional pattern throughout the year. Key Taian days, favored for weddings and celebrations, remain highly sought after. By consulting the Rokuyō calendar, individuals can plan important events in harmony with longstanding Japanese customs, ensuring auspicious timing and cultural significance.