Minor Cold — 2025 insights
Minor Cold小寒
Minor Cold marks the 23rd solar term and the fifth of winter, signalling the true start of late season chill. For much of China, it often feels colder than Major Cold that follows, because frigid northern air masses arrive more frequently now.
Key dates
Gregorian date: 2025-01-05
Lunar date: Last lunar month, 6th day, 甲辰 year
Arrives around January 5 to 6
Seasonal origin
Temperatures start to dip noticeably during this micro-cold phase.
Seasonal verse
Night lessons stretch for eager minds, frost reminds elders of warmer wine. Though Suzhou claims the chill arrives late, chrysanthemums still hold one golden shine.
Customs
People say "the harshest chill sits within the Nine Nine cycle", so households prepare seriously for the freeze. In many provinces, families write spring couplets, cut window paper, and stock markets for lanterns, fireworks, and incense, slowly ushering in the Lunar New Year spirit.
Seasonal food
Hotpot lamb, candied chestnuts, and roasted sweet potatoes are seasonal favourites. The saying "nourish the body through the third Nine to stay strong next year" encourages warming foods. Many cities enjoy lamb broth or herb-infused stews; in Guangzhou, families eat warm sticky rice for breakfast on Minor Cold mornings.
Guidance
Bundle up yet keep moving—light jogging, rope skipping, or shuttlecock games help circulation. Emotionally, stay at ease and optimistic, letting the season be a time for quiet joy rather than stress.