Cold Dew

Cold Dew is the 17th of the 24 solar terms and also the 5th in autumn. It is a term readily associated with considerable weather changes. Around Cold Dew, cold air from the north becomes powerful enough to challenge the domination of remaining heatwaves all over the country; most parts of China will fall under its control. The northern part of China will be ready to take on late autumn features and people can expect the coming of winter.

People in many parts of China share the habit of maple-viewing during Cold Dew. The famous verse “霜叶红于二月花” by Du Mu, a Chinese poet of the Tang Dynasty, which means “frosty leaves are more crimson than the flowers of early spring” is a perfect description of maples in Cold Dew.

A range of places may pop up in their minds when Chinese people are planning for their maple-viewing trips, among which Mountain Xiangshan in Beijing is one of the most famous spots. It is common for people in Beijing and neighboring areas to go there and enjoy the beauty of maples.

The month of Cold Dew is widely regarded as the month of chrysanthemums. Chrysanthemums, entering their prime time, are flourishing everywhere. Apart from simply admiring their beauty, Chinese people also make chrysanthemums into wine and tea, which can improve immunity to cold and dry weather.