The 24 solar terms, consisting of 12 major solar terms and 12 minor solar terms, were created thousands of years ago by the ancient Chinese to guide agricultural production.
Today, the culture behind the terms provides useful guidance to people's lives as each term features special food, cultural ceremonies and healthy living tips.
Lesser Cold, or "Xiao Han" in Chinese, is the 23rd solar terms on the traditional Chinese calender. During Lesser Cold, most areas in China have entered the bitter cold stage of winter. The ground and rivers are frozen. The cold air from the north moves southward continuously. People enjoy splendid landscapes of heavy snow and the fun of winter sports.
Feel the vitality and passion of outdoor exercising together with Xinhua images!
PHOTOS BY: Li Ga/Zhang Chen/Chai Gengli/Xu Chang/Sun Zhongzhe
Chen ZHonghao/Ju Huanzong/Hou Zhaokang/Liu Chan