Mandarin Corner

节气 

(Solar Terms)

One intriguing part of ancient Chinese culture is the 24 solar terms, a series of different seasons (each around a fortnight long) which played a large role in not only ancient times but also has cultural significance today. The solar terms date back to the Pre-Qin period, and are based on the changing weather and farming conditions. They are measured by the celestial longitude starting at zero, each solar term 15 degrees forward. Each solar term comes with its own unique traditions and practices, sometimes specific to a particular region, from greeting families to building a paper ox! The solar terms start from Lichun (Beginning of Spring) to Dahan (Major Cold). Right now, it is Liqiu (Beginning of Autumn). To find out more about the solar terms and what they all are, learn all about them here, or look at the video below.

By Anna (Mandarin captain)