Major cold ultimate winter solar term in Chinese twenty-four solar terms system symbolizing peak cold and festival preparations tied to traditional Chinese folk customs
2026.01.20
Major Cold marks closing chapter of winter in Chinese Twenty-Four Solar Terms, a time when cold reaches its most intense state before gradual fade into spring. Unlike other solar terms that carry subtle transitions between seasons, Major Cold presents unyielding wintry essence, wrapping lands in crisp chill that nips at cheeks and sets stage for year-end rituals rooted in tradition. This term holds special place in traditional culture, as it bridges end of old year and dawn of new one, tightly linking natural rhythms with human life and daily routines. Ancient people observed changes of this period closely, from shifts in wind direction to behavior of plants and animals, integrating these observations into daily routines, folk customs and even philosophical views about harmony between nature and mankind. For them, Major Cold was not merely a sign of harsh weather but a reminder to align actions with natural laws, preparing both body and spirit for upcoming seasonal shift.
Climate during Major Cold shows striking contrasts between northern and southern regions, shaping diverse seasonal experiences across land. In northern areas, cold air lingers stubbornly like an uninvited guest, with temperatures plummeting to extremely low levels that freeze breath mid-air. Rivers and lakes freeze solid, their surfaces glistening like polished jade under sunlight, so firm that people can walk or even sled across safely in some places. Heavy snowfalls are common, blanketing fields, villages and cities in pure white, softening edges of rooftops and trees into gentle curves. This snow not only creates breathtaking scenery that turns landscapes into winter wonderlands but also acts as natural insulator, wrapping winter crops beneath in warm layer and providing essential moisture for germination when spring arrives. Wind in northern regions carries biting chill that cuts through clothing, making outdoor activities a test of endurance, yet it also adds unique charm to winter life, stirring up snowflakes into dancing swirls and bringing crispness to air that invigorates senses.
Southern regions, by contrast, experience milder but damper cold that clings to skin like a thin veil. Frost clings to leaves and grass every morning, turning vegetation into delicate crystal works of art as sunlight breaks through, casting sparkling glimmers across fields and gardens. Rainfall replaces snow in most southern areas, bringing misty and hazy days where distant mountains and buildings fade into soft blur. Though temperatures do not drop as low as in north, cold damp air penetrates clothing easily, creating cold sensation that seeps into bones and lingers even indoors. Some southern regions with mild climates even see occasional warm spells, known locally as “late winter warmth,” allowing certain cold-resistant flowers to bloom sporadically, adding faint touches of color to otherwise gray winter landscape. This regional climate difference not only shapes varied living habits but also gives rise to distinct customs during Major Cold, reflecting adaptability of people to local environments.
Phenological changes during Major Cold are more delicate compared to other winter terms, reflecting nature’s quiet preparation for spring beneath harsh surface. In northern countryside, sparrows gather in flocks, hopping briskly between bare branches and scratching at snow-covered fields in search of leftover grains. Their lively chirps cut through cold air, sharp and clear, bringing faint signs of vitality to otherwise silent winter. In southern gardens, plum blossoms burst into bloom one by one, standing proudly against cold with petals in soft shades of pink and pure white, their faint fragrance drifting on cool breeze. Plum blossom, known for its resilience in harsh conditions, becomes iconic symbol of Major Cold, representing perseverance, dignity and hope for warmer days. Besides plum blossoms, camellias also bloom in southern regions, their large and bright flowers—ranging from deep red to pale pink—contrasting sharply with cold, gray surroundings, serving as subtle reminders that spring is drawing near.
Another notable phenological feature is obvious change in animal behavior as creatures adapt to scarce food and frigid temperatures. Livestock in rural areas tend to stay huddled in warm pens, reducing activity to conserve energy and avoid cold. Farmers take extra care to feed them nutrient-rich food, mixing hay with grains to ensure they maintain sufficient strength to survive coldest days of year. Wild animals, meanwhile, either remain in deep hibernation, their bodies slowing down to minimal functions, or become more active in searching for food as natural sources grow scarce in winter. Small mammals like rabbits and squirrels dart between bushes, while birds fly longer distances in search of seeds and insects. These phenological changes were crucial references for ancient farmers to arrange agricultural work and adjust living habits, embodying age-old wisdom of adapting to nature’s laws and living in harmony with surroundings.
Agricultural activities during Major Cold focus on protection and careful preparation, differing greatly between north and south due to climate gaps. In northern regions, farmland lies fallow under thick snow, so farmers shift their focus entirely to livestock management. They repair dilapidated pens, replace worn bedding with dry straw and prepare sufficient forage, storing it in well-ventilated barns to prevent mold and ensure supply lasts through winter. Some farmers also sort and store seeds collected from previous harvest, carefully selecting plump and healthy ones and drying them thoroughly to preserve vitality for spring sowing. Modern northern farms adopt advanced technologies to cope with cold, such as heating equipment for livestock pens, thermal insulation films for greenhouses and efficient snow removal tools for fields, all designed to minimize impact of severe cold on agricultural production and lay groundwork for bumper harvest next year.
Southern farmers, on the other hand, keep busy with greenhouse cultivation and meticulous orchard management, as milder climate allows for year-round agricultural activities. Greenhouses filled with fresh vegetables like spinach, lettuce and chrysanthemum greens thrive despite cold weather outside, their leaves lush and green. Farmers monitor temperature and humidity closely with simple tools, adjusting ventilation by opening and closing plastic films and controlling irrigation to ensure optimal growing conditions for vegetables. Orchard owners prune branches of fruit trees with precision, removing diseased, weak and overcrowded branches to allow sunlight and air to penetrate, promoting healthy growth in spring. They also cover tree trunks with straw or apply protective coatings made from lime and sulfur, effectively preventing frost damage and repelling overwintering pests. In some southern rural areas, farmers start preparing soil for spring planting, turning over fields repeatedly to improve soil structure and fertility, while also adding organic fertilizers to enrich nutrient content.
Folk customs during Major Cold are closely intertwined with upcoming Spring Festival, filling cold days with warm and joyful festive atmosphere. Unlike common customs mentioned in other introductions, many regions have unique rituals that reflect local culture during this period. In northern cities and villages, especially in northeastern areas, people begin making ice lanterns as traditional winter craft. They cut and carve large ice blocks into various exquisite shapes, such as animals, flowers, pavilions and towers, then place oil lamps or LED lights inside, creating dazzling and colorful displays when lit at night. These ice lanterns are often displayed in public squares or outside homes, not only decorating villages and cities but also serving as symbols of brightness, warmth and hope for new year. Local communities even hold small ice lantern festivals, where families gather to admire lanterns and share winter snacks, strengthening neighborhood bonds.
Southern customs focus more on food preparation, with each region having its own signature delicacies made during Major Cold. In regions like Guangxi and Guangdong, families gather to make rice cakes, a traditional food with profound cultural meaning. Glutinous rice is soaked in clean water for hours, ground into smooth paste and steamed with sweet fillings like red bean paste, sesame paste or jujube paste. Some families also make savory rice cakes with minced meat and vegetables. Rice cakes, with soft and chewy texture and rich taste, are essential for Spring Festival celebrations, as their pronunciation in Chinese is similar to words meaning “progress” and “prosperity.” In Zhejiang and Jiangsu, people pickle vegetables and meat in large clay vats, a practice passed down for generations. The pickled foods, such as pickled cabbage, radish and pork, develop strong and unique flavors after weeks of fermentation, becoming important dishes on Spring Festival dinner tables, carrying precious memories of winter and deep family affection.
Household cleaning, a common year-end custom, also starts during Major Cold in many regions, known as “sweeping away old dust” to welcome new year. Unlike simple daily dusting, this cleaning involves thorough scrubbing of furniture, walls, floors and windows, leaving no corner untouched. People use bamboo brooms, cloth rags and natural cleaning agents to wipe away dirt and dust accumulated over year. They believe that cleaning away impurities not only refreshes living environment but also drives away bad luck and misfortune, making way for good fortune and happiness in new year. Some families also rearrange furniture to create new layout, symbolizing fresh start, and decorate houses with paper-cuts of zodiac animals, flowers and couplets in advance, gradually building up festive atmosphere as Spring Festival approaches.
Health preservation during Major Cold follows principle of nourishing and conserving energy, with practices tailored to cold weather and seasonal characteristics. Diet focuses on warm and nutrient-dense foods that can replenish energy and resist cold. In northern regions, mutton hot pot is extremely popular among families and friends. Fresh mutton slices are boiled in savory broth, paired with vegetables, tofu and noodles, as mutton is believed to warm body, replenish qi and nourish blood. People often add ginger, garlic, Chinese prickly ash and other spices to broth to enhance warming effect and improve flavor. Southerners prefer congee cooked with glutinous rice, red dates, longan and wolfberries, which is easy to digest and nourishes internal organs like spleen and stomach. Both north and south emphasize avoiding raw and cold foods, such as raw vegetables and cold drinks, to protect digestive system from cold damage and maintain physical health.
Daily routine adjustments are also important for health during this period, following traditional health concepts. People tend to go to bed early to conserve yang energy, which is scarce in winter, and get up late to avoid cold morning air and wait for sunlight to warm environment. Outdoor exercise is arranged in sunny hours, such as walking in parks, doing gentle stretching exercises or practicing tai chi, which helps promote blood circulation without excessive energy consumption. Heavy physical activity is strictly avoided, as it may deplete stored energy and make body more vulnerable to cold. Keeping warm is crucial, especially for elderly and children with weaker immunity. Hats, scarves and gloves are essential when going out, and feet are kept warm with thick socks and comfortable shoes, as traditional wisdom holds that “cold enters through feet.” Some families also use hot water bottles or electric blankets to keep beds warm at night.
Major Cold is far more than just a solar term indicating extreme cold. It carries rich cultural connotations, reflecting traditional Chinese people’s deep understanding of nature, positive attitude toward life and persistent pursuit of harmony between humans and environment. Every custom, every agricultural activity and every health practice during this period is a product of long-term interaction between humans and nature, accumulated and passed down through generations. As cold gradually eases and Major Cold comes to an end, nature awakens slowly from winter slumber—grass sprouts, birds sing louder and warm breeze blows. People welcome Spring Festival with full hope and joy, exchanging greetings and celebrating new year. This cycle of cold and warmth, end and beginning, constitutes essential part of Chinese cultural heritage, continuing to enrich people’s lives and remind modern society of importance of respecting natural rhythms and inheriting traditional wisdom.
Climate during Major Cold shows striking contrasts between northern and southern regions, shaping diverse seasonal experiences across land. In northern areas, cold air lingers stubbornly, with temperatures plummeting to extremely low levels. Rivers and lakes freeze solid, their surfaces glistening like polished jade under sunlight. Heavy snowfalls are common, blanketing fields, villages and cities in pure white. This snow not only creates breathtaking scenery but also acts as natural insulator, protecting winter crops beneath from severe cold and providing moisture for germination when spring arrives. Wind in northern regions carries biting chill, making outdoor activities a test of endurance, yet it also adds unique charm to winter life.
Southern regions, by contrast, experience milder but damper cold. Frost clings to leaves and grass every morning, turning vegetation into crystal works of art as sunlight breaks through. Rainfall replaces snow in most southern areas, bringing misty and hazy days. Though temperatures do not drop as low as in north, cold damp air penetrates clothing easily, creating cold sensation that seeps into bones. Some southern regions with mild climates even see occasional warm spells, allowing certain cold-resistant flowers to bloom, adding touches of color to gray winter landscape. This regional climate difference leads to varied customs and life habits during Major Cold.
Phenological changes during Major Cold are more delicate compared to other winter terms, reflecting nature’s quiet preparation for spring. In northern countryside, sparrows gather in flocks, hopping between branches and searching for food in fields. Their lively chirps cut through cold air, bringing faint signs of vitality to silent winter. In southern gardens, plum blossoms burst into bloom, standing proudly against cold with petals in shades of pink and white. Plum blossom, known for resilience in harsh conditions, becomes symbol of Major Cold, representing perseverance and hope. Besides plum blossoms, camellias also bloom in southern regions, their large and bright flowers contrasting sharply with cold surroundings, hinting at approaching spring.
Another notable phenological feature is change in animal behavior. Livestock in rural areas tend to stay in warm pens, reducing activity to conserve energy. Farmers take extra care to feed them nutrient-rich food, ensuring they maintain strength to survive cold days. Wild animals, meanwhile, either remain in hibernation or become more active in searching for food, as food sources grow scarce in winter. These phenological changes were important references for ancient farmers to arrange agricultural work and adjust living habits, embodying wisdom of adapting to nature’s laws.
Agricultural activities during Major Cold focus on protection and preparation, differing greatly between north and south. In northern regions, farmland lies fallow under thick snow, so farmers shift focus to livestock management. They repair pens, replace bedding and prepare sufficient forage to see livestock through winter. Some farmers also sort and store seeds collected from previous harvest, carefully selecting plump and healthy ones for spring sowing. Modern northern farms adopt advanced technologies, such as heating equipment for livestock pens and snow removal tools for fields, to minimize impact of severe cold on agricultural production.
Southern farmers, on the other hand, keep busy with greenhouse cultivation and orchard management. Greenhouses filled with vegetables like spinach, lettuce and chrysanthemum greens thrive despite cold weather. Farmers monitor temperature and humidity closely, adjusting ventilation and irrigation to ensure optimal growing conditions. Orchard owners prune branches of fruit trees, removing diseased and weak branches to promote healthy growth in spring. They also cover tree trunks with straw or apply protective coatings to prevent frost damage. In some southern rural areas, farmers start preparing soil for spring planting, turning over fields to improve soil structure and fertility.
Folk customs during Major Cold are closely intertwined with upcoming Spring Festival, filling cold days with warm and festive atmosphere. Unlike common customs mentioned in other introductions, many regions have unique rituals during this period. In northern cities and villages, people begin making ice lanterns. They carve ice blocks into various shapes, such as animals, flowers and buildings, then place lanterns inside, creating dazzling displays when lit at night. These ice lanterns not only decorate villages but also serve as symbols of brightness and hope for new year.
Southern customs focus more on food preparation. In regions like Guangxi and Guangdong, families make rice cakes during Major Cold. Glutinous rice is soaked, ground into paste and steamed with fillings like red bean paste or sesame paste. Rice cakes, with soft texture and sweet taste, are essential for Spring Festival celebrations, symbolizing progress and prosperity. In Zhejiang and Jiangsu, people pickle vegetables and meat in large vats. The pickled foods, with strong and unique flavors, become important dishes on Spring Festival dinner tables, carrying memories of winter and family affection.
Household cleaning, a common year-end custom, also starts during Major Cold in many regions. Unlike simple dusting, this cleaning involves thorough scrubbing of furniture, walls and floors. People believe that cleaning away dirt and dust not only refreshes living environment but also drives away bad luck, making way for good fortune in new year. Some families also rearrange furniture and decorate houses with paper-cuts and couplets in advance, gradually building up festive atmosphere.
