Minor ColdGrowing cold, though not yet the coldest
Major ColdThe coldest stretch; the year draws to its close
Start of SpringSpring begins; all things revive
Rain WaterRains increase; ice and snow melt
Awakening of InsectsSpring thunder wakes the insects
Spring EquinoxDay and night in equal measure
Pure BrightnessSkies clear and air is fresh — a time for tomb-sweeping
Grain RainRain nourishes the young grain
Start of SummerSummer begins
Grain BudsGrains begin to plump but are not yet ripe
Grain in EarBusy sowing before the grain passes its season
Summer SolsticeThe longest day of the year
Minor HeatReal heat begins
Major HeatThe hottest days of the year
Start of AutumnAutumn begins
End of HeatThe heat draws to a close
White DewDew gathers, the air cools
Autumn EquinoxMid-autumn on the calendar; day and night balance again
Cold DewDew turns chilly; autumn deepens
Frost's DescentFrost descends; late autumn
Start of WinterWinter begins
Minor SnowFirst light snows
Major SnowHeavier snows set in
Winter SolsticeThe shortest day; dumplings in the north, tangyuan in the south
Solar-term dates follow calculations by Purple Mountain Observatory; traditional festivals follow the lunar calendar. Local observance may differ; defer to local custom.