Major Cold (大寒) — Chinese Solar Term Meaning & Traditions

Chinese Solar Terms Usually falls on January 20 each year · Updated for 2026

Major Cold (大寒, pronounced "dahan") is one of the 24 solar terms of the traditional Chinese calendar. The final push of cold before the cycle turns again — rest deeply now, spring is near.

Major Cold Energy & How to Use It

Winter terms are inward and conserving: rest, storage and preparation. Align with them by protecting your energy and trusting the slow quiet work.

Ways to Honor Major Cold (大寒)

• Tidy one corner of your home that mirrors the season's energy — clear space invites clear change.
• Wear or carry a small token of the season's colors for the day.
• Tidy one corner of your home that mirrors the season's energy — clear space invites clear change.

When Major Cold Falls

Major Cold arrives around January 20 each Gregorian year (01-20). In 2026 it falls in early-to-mid January, marking the shift from the previous term (Minor Cold) toward Start of Spring.