Earlier this week, on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, the Chinese mainland marked the onset of Major Cold, or Dahan, the final solar term in the traditional Chinese lunisolar calendar. As winter peaks, icy winds sweep across the land and communities brace for the season's chill and change.
Across cities and rural areas alike, anticipation for the Spring Festival is building. Families are deep cleaning their homes, curing preserved meats, and browsing markets online for New Year supplies. This annual ritual of renewal and reunion offers a moment of pause in the final days of winter, blending tradition with modern convenience.
Traditional Chinese medicine offers guidance on navigating the chill of Major Cold through diet. Hearty, warming ingredients such as lamb, chestnuts, ginger, and cinnamon bark are recommended to support circulation and strengthen the body's defenses. These seasonal foods have sparked global interest, with recipe hashtags trending on social platforms across Asia, Europe, and North America.
Beyond its cultural roots, Major Cold carries lessons for the modern world. Digital wellness apps now integrate solar-term reminders, while entrepreneurs experiment with seasonally inspired products—from warming teas to immersive virtual experiences that capture snow-laden landscapes. Thought leaders emphasize that syncing daily routines with nature's rhythms can boost well-being and resilience in a fast-paced digital age.
For travelers and digital nomads, embracing the spirit of Major Cold can mean seeking out sustainable winter experiences—whether it's dog-sledding tours in Inner Mongolia, hot springs off Hokkaido's coast, or community-led ice fishing in the Nordic region. These immersive journeys highlight how winter's extremes can become catalysts for connection and cross-cultural exchange.
As Major Cold gives way to gradual warming, the countdown to spring is on. Whether you're stocking up on warming spices, planning a cozy winter getaway, or simply taking a mindful moment, this solar term invites everyone to pause, adapt—and look ahead to the season of renewal.
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With the arrival of Major Cold, anticipation for spring grows
cgtn.com
