The Minor Cold (Xiǎohán) solar term begins on January 5 this year, marking the start of the coldest period of the year in southern China. This week, temperatures in Guangdong's urban areas dropped toward single digits, leading residents to embrace traditional customs that bring warmth and meaning to the changing season.

Seasonal Customs and Scenery

As the chill sets in, one longstanding Cantonese practice is eating glutinous rice cooked with preserved meats, spring onions, and cilantro on the morning of Minor Cold. Locals believe the dish helps ward off the cold and symbolizes family warmth for the year ahead.

Nature responds to the subtle shift as well. Along the Liuxi River near Guangzhou, plum blossoms have reached full bloom, creating a scene locals fondly refer to as Guangdong's own "snowscape." This period also initiates the ancient sequence of "flower breezes," where specific flowers bloom in turn, beginning with the plum.

Preparing for the Chinese New Year

Minor Cold also serves as a cue that Chinese New Year festivities are near. As the saying goes, "Minor Cold busy buying, Major Cold preparing for the New Year". Families start purchasing goods, and flower markets—a central part of Guangdong's Spring Festival tradition—begin their preparations. In Foshan's Lishui Town, a major production hub, growers are busy supplying vibrant butterfly orchids, while in Chencun Town, fields of lucky kumquat trees heavy with orange fruit signal prosperity and luck.

A Hint of Spring in the Cold

Even as the cold settles in, subtle signs of the coming spring appear. According to traditional phenology, this is when wild geese begin flying north, magpies build nests, and pheasants start to call, all regarded as nature's quiet signals of renewal.

For locals and visitors alike, the crisp days also offer a chance to enjoy seasonal treats like freshly harvested Shatangju tangerines from Zhaoqing and Golden Pomfret from Zhanjiang, often featured on festive tables.

Thus, as temperatures fall, life in Guangdong retains a dynamic warmth, balancing the chill of the season with the colors, flavors, and growing anticipation of the new year.

From a Boat at Qingyuan, to Yun Lao (Excerpt)

Su Shi (Song Dynasty)

When Minor Cold first grips the Ridge of Blooming Plums,

Peaks and gulfs unfold, away from worldly scenes.

My boat is a floating home on Qingyuan's tide,

In one clear dream, I'm by my homeland's well.