Lesson
Japan Names Days Over 40C as 'Kokushobi'
Read this news story in English at three levels, easy, standard, and advanced (B1–C1) — with vocabulary and a comprehension quiz.
Japan has introduced a new term, 'kokushobi', for days exceeding 40C after experiencing its hottest summer on record. This term reflects the extreme heat conditions caused by climate change.
Pick your level
Standard — Natural English
47 words · ~1 min readEasy version (A2–B1)
Japan has a new name for very hot days. If the temperature is 40C or more, it is called 'kokushobi'. This name means 'cruelly hot'. Last summer was the hottest ever in Japan, with many days over 40C.Standard version (B1–B2)
Japan has revealed a new term, 'kokushobi', for days when temperatures reach 40C (104F) or higher. This name, which translates to 'cruelly hot', was chosen after a national survey. Last summer was the hottest on record, with many extreme heat days, highlighting the impact of climate change.Advanced version (C1–C2)
In response to last year's unprecedented heat, Japan has introduced a new designation for days exceeding 40C (104F), termed 'kokushobi', which translates to 'cruelly hot'. This term emerged from a national survey conducted by the Japan Meteorological Agency, reflecting growing concerns over climate change and its effects on weather patterns. The summer of 2025 marked the hottest on record, with average temperatures significantly above normal and numerous days surpassing 40C, underscoring the urgency of addressing extreme weather events.Lesson audio
Standard level
Tap to play
Test your understanding
01What is the new term for days over 40C in Japan?
02How many responses were received in the survey for the new term?
03What was the peak temperature recorded in Isesaki?
04What does 'koku' mean in the term 'kokushobi'?
Discussion
How do you think extreme heat days like 'kokushobi' will affect daily life in Japan?
Vocabulary
kokushobi word
A Japanese term for extremely hot days over 40C.
“The new term 'kokushobi' reflects the severity of the heat.”
blistering word
Extremely hot or uncomfortable.
“The summer was blistering, with record temperatures.”
survey word
A method of gathering information from people.
“A national survey helped choose the new name for hot days.”
extreme word
Very severe or serious.
“Extreme weather events are becoming more common.”
temperatures word
The degree of heat measured in degrees.
“Temperatures reached over 40C on several days.”