The days of the Japanese calendar explained in English If you've ever noticed a lot of weddings happening at the shrine next door on some days but none on others, there's a reason for it. In the calendar, there are six labels that indicate how lucky or unlucky a day is, and people often plan important events based on these.
Sensho (先勝): Morning is lucky, but from 2 to 6 pm, it's unlucky.
Tomobiki (友引): The morning is lucky, noon is unlucky, but the evening is very fortunate. Because "Tomobiki" means "pulls friends," funerals aren't held on this day, as it's believed that having one could pull friends toward death. However, some interpret "Tomobiki" as "sharing with friends," so they choose to have weddings to share their happiness.
Senbu (先負): It's unlucky before noon, but luck improves in the afternoon.
Butsumetsu (仏滅): This means "Buddha's death" and is considered the most unlucky day. Few people marry on this day, and some wedding venues even offer discounts for couples who do.
Taian (大安): This is the luckiest day of all.
Shakkō (赤口): Only the time between 11 am and 1 pm is considered lucky.