The 23rd solar term in the Chinese lunar calendar marks the coldest period of the year and deepest winter. It begins when the Sun reaches the 285° longitude and ends when it reaches the longitude of 300°. It more often refers in particular to the day when the Sun is exactly at the celestial longitude of 285°. In the Gregorian calendar, it usually begins around 5 January and ends around 20 January.

Wrap up, keep warm, look after your health especially your lungs. Chinese proverbs link the climate of Minor Cold to forecast the coming spring. The harsh chill is seen as a a prelude to spring’s approach, with the new year only six weeks from now, covering the microseasons – Geese head north, Magpies build nests, and Pheasants begin to call.