夏

• Reading: なつ
• Romaji: natsu
• Kanji breakdown: 夏 (ka/natsu) — summer
• Pronunciation: /na.tsɯ/

Meaning

Summer; summertime. The hot season from June to August in Japan.

One of the four seasons. Summer in Japan is known for intense heat and humidity, as well as beloved traditions like fireworks festivals (花火大会), summer break (夏休み), and Obon holiday. Can be used adverbially in expressions like 夏に (in summer).

Examples

1. 夏は暑いですが、海に行くのが好きです。 Summer is hot, but I like going to the beach.
2. 今年の夏に北海道へ旅行します。 I'm traveling to Hokkaido this summer.
3. 夏休みは何をしますか。 What are you going to do during summer vacation?

Usage Guide

Context: seasons, weather, travel

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

A native Japanese word (wago) from Old Japanese. The kanji 夏 originally depicted a person in a large ceremonial mask, later associated with the hot season.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal