Minor Cold

小寒 · Xiǎohán. The 23rd solar term, usually January 5 or 6.

Red lanterns hanging before a pale moon
Solar term小寒Xiǎohán

Winter deepens after the solstice, with cold air settling into the landscape.

Story & background

A solar term is a point in the sun's annual path, not a fixed public holiday. The 24 terms helped traditional communities read seasonal change, weather, and agricultural timing.

Customs

  • Notice the seasonal changes described by the term.
  • Compare how the same term feels in different regions of China.
  • Treat the term as a seasonal marker rather than a rule for every family.

Festival food

Seasonal foods vary by region and household. A solar term does not prescribe one national dish, so ask what is familiar locally.

Try this

Learn the Chinese name and ask: 这个节气有什么习俗?(Zhège jiéqì yǒu shénme xísú?)

Dates in this guide

2026: 2026-01-05 · 2027: 2027-01-06 · 2028: 2028-01-05

Useful word小寒XiǎohánMinor Cold