Start of Winter (立冬) — Chinese Solar Term Meaning & Traditions

Chinese Solar Terms Usually falls on November 7 each year · Updated for 2026

Start of Winter (立冬, pronounced "lidong") is one of the 24 solar terms of the traditional Chinese calendar. The year tucks inward; rest, storage and inner warmth become the wise work of the season.

Start of Winter 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 Start of Winter (立冬)

• Eat with the season — for this solar term choose the freshest, most seasonal food you can find.
• Write one line about what this turning point means for your current goals.
• Eat with the season — for this solar term choose the freshest, most seasonal food you can find.

When Start of Winter Falls

Start of Winter arrives around November 7 each Gregorian year (11-07). In 2026 it falls in early-to-mid November, marking the shift from the previous term (Frost's Descent) toward Minor Snow.