24 Solar Terms

The 24 Solar Terms (二十四节气, èrshí sì jiéqì) are a traditional Chinese system that divides the solar year into 24 segments, each reflecting a unique phase of seasonal change. Developed over 2,000 years ago, this system was designed to guide agricultural activities, but its influence extends to medicine, cuisine, festivals, and daily life. It’s not just a calendar—it’s a philosophy of living in harmony with nature.

How It Works

  • Solar-Based: Each term corresponds to a specific position of the sun along the ecliptic, spaced 15° apart
  • Duration: Each term lasts about 15–16 days
  • Seasonal Markers: Terms signal transitions in climate, daylight, and biological activity
  • Cultural Integration: Used in traditional Chinese medicine, farming, and feng shui

Together, they form a complete cycle of seasonal awareness and ecological wisdom.

The 24 Terms at a Glance

Order Solar Term (English) Chinese Approx. Date (Gregorian)
1 Start of Spring 立春 Feb 3–5
2 Rain Water 雨水 Feb 18–20
3 Awakening of Insects 惊蛰 Mar 5–7
4 Vernal Equinox 春分 Mar 20–21
5 Clear and Bright 清明 Apr 4–6
6 Grain Rain 谷雨 Apr 19–21
7 Start of Summer 立夏 May 5–7
8 Grain Full 小满 May 20–22
9 Grain in Ear 芒种 Jun 5–7
10 Summer Solstice 夏至 Jun 21–22
11 Minor Heat 小暑 Jul 6–8
12 Major Heat 大暑 Jul 22–24
13 Start of Autumn 立秋 Aug 7–9
14 Limit of Heat 处暑 Aug 22–24
15 White Dew 白露 Sep 7–9
16 Autumnal Equinox 秋分 Sep 22–24
17 Cold Dew 寒露 Oct 8–9
18 Frost Descent 霜降 Oct 23–24
19 Start of Winter 立冬 Nov 7–8
20 Minor Snow 小雪 Nov 22–23
21 Major Snow 大雪 Dec 6–8
22 Winter Solstice 冬至 Dec 21–23
23 Minor Cold 小寒 Jan 5–7
24 Major Cold 大寒 Jan 20–21

Each term has poetic names and practical meanings, often tied to agricultural cues and natural phenomena.

Cultural Significance

  • Agriculture: Farmers used solar terms to time planting, harvesting, and irrigation
  • Traditional Medicine: Seasonal changes influence health, diet, and herbal remedies
  • Festivals & Rituals: Terms like Qingming and Dongzhi are tied to ancestral rites and seasonal celebrations
  • Phenology: Observations of animal behavior, plant growth, and weather patterns are embedded in each term

The solar terms are a living heritage, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Historical Origins

  • First Recorded: During the Western Zhou Dynasty (~1046–771 BCE)
  • Formalized: In the Han Dynasty’s Taichu Calendar (104 BCE)
  • Spread Across Asia: Adopted in Korea, Japan, and Vietnam, with local adaptations
  • Modern Relevance: Still used in Chinese almanacs, farming, and lifestyle apps

It’s a system that has evolved yet remained deeply rooted in observation and reverence for nature.

The 24 Solar Terms are more than time markers—they’re a cultural compass. They teach us to observe, adapt, and align with the rhythms of the Earth. Whether you're planting crops, choosing seasonal foods, or simply appreciating the subtle shifts in weather, these terms offer timeless guidance.