二十四节气
24 timeless sayings from the Chinese Philosophy tradition
The 24 solar terms (二十四节气) are a traditional Chinese calendar system that divides the solar year into 24 periods of approximately 15 days each, based on the sun's position in the zodiac. Formalized during the Han dynasty and recorded in the Huainanzi (139 BCE), each term reflects seasonal changes in climate, agriculture, and natural phenomena. The system was declared a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016. Unlike the lunar calendar, solar terms are based on the tropical year — the same astronomical foundation as the Western calendar.
"Autumn Begins"
The first leaf turns
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Autumn Equinox"
Balance returns, then tips toward night
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Awakening of Insects"
Thunder stirs the sleeping world
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Cold Dew"
The chill arrives with the morning
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"End of Heat"
The last warmth releases its grip
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Frost Descent"
The first ice claims the ground
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Grain Full"
The kernels swell with promise
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Grain in Ear"
The awns emerge, the harvest nears
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Grain Rain"
The last rain of spring feeds the seedlings
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Major Cold"
The final freeze before spring
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Major Heat"
The year's hottest breath
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Major Snow"
The world goes white and silent
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Minor Cold"
The chill deepens before the thaw
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Minor Heat"
The warmth becomes weight
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Minor Snow"
The first flakes drift down
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Pure Brightness"
Clear skies, clear hearts
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Rain Water"
The ice softens into rain
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Spring Begins"
The year turns toward warmth
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Spring Equinox"
Day and night stand as equals
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Summer Begins"
The sun climbs to its throne
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Summer Solstice"
The longest day, the turning point
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"White Dew"
Morning moisture turns to pearl
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Winter Begins"
The earth closes its doors
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
"Winter Solstice"
The darkest day, the returning light
— 24 Solar Terms Read on wisdom card →
Explore more about 24 Solar Terms → Knowledge Page · What is 24 Solar Terms?
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