Lì Dōng (Beginning of Winter): The Arrival of a New Season
As the crisp air deepens and autumn’s golden hues fade, China welcomes Lì Dōng (立冬) — the Beginning of Winter, one of the most significant points in the 24 Solar Terms of the traditional Chinese calendar.
In 2025, Lì Dōng falls on November 7, marking the official transition from autumn to winter, a time to harvest the year’s hard work and prepare for the quiet strength of the cold season.
🌏 The Origin of Lì Dōng (立冬)
The term Lì Dōng literally means “the start of winter.”
Originating over 2,000 years ago during the Zhou Dynasty, the 24 Solar Terms were created to guide agricultural activities according to the movement of the sun along the ecliptic.
In ancient China, winter symbolized both rest and renewal — the earth conserves energy, and people begin to prepare for the next agricultural cycle. Lì Dōng represents closure, preservation, and protection, reminding us that even nature needs a time to pause and regenerate.
🏮 Cultural Significance: A Season of Reflection and Nourishment
In Chinese philosophy, winter corresponds to the element of water and the Yin energy — quiet, introspective, and nurturing.
This is the time when families gather indoors, share warmth, and strengthen bonds — both physically and emotionally.
Ancient traditions viewed Lì Dōng as a day of celebration and thanksgiving. In imperial times, emperors would hold ceremonies to honor the deities of winter, while common people celebrated with hearty meals symbolizing strength and health to face the cold months ahead.
🍲 Traditional Customs and Foods
Lì Dōng has always been closely linked with food traditions, as people believe that eating well helps store energy for the cold season.
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In Northern China, people eat dumplings (饺子, jiǎozi) to keep warm and “protect their ears” from frost, based on a story of the famous doctor Zhang Zhongjing who used dumplings to prevent frostbite.
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In Southern China, families enjoy tonic soups, mutton hotpot, or stewed duck, emphasizing warmth and nourishment rather than just keeping full.
This difference reflects the climate diversity of China — while the North welcomes real frost and snow, the South experiences a gentler, moister winter, yet both share the same sentiment: staying healthy, grateful, and together.
🏡 Lì Dōng in Modern China
Today, even in bustling cities, Lì Dōng remains a meaningful tradition.
Schools, communities, and companies often share winter meals, distribute seasonal greetings, or organize team gatherings to strengthen unity and appreciation.
For many Chinese families, this day marks the symbolic beginning of a new year’s rest cycle — a time to slow down, reflect on achievements, and prepare for future growth.
At Forman Precision Industry Co., Ltd. (FPIC), we see this spirit reflected in our work as well — after months of innovation and progress, we value the importance of reflection, care, and continuous improvement.
Just as the seasons renew, FPIC continues to evolve, staying resilient and forward-looking through every cycle of change.
🌨️ Lì Dōng Beyond Borders: Sharing the Spirit of the Seasons
The 24 Solar Terms — now listed by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity — represent a unique harmony between humans and nature.
They remind us that true sustainability begins with understanding the rhythm of the earth.
As we share the story of Lì Dōng with friends and partners around the world, FPIC hopes to spread the beauty of Chinese seasonal wisdom — a culture that celebrates balance, gratitude, and renewal.
💬 A Warm Wish from FPIC
As winter begins, FPIC extends our best wishes to all employees, customers, and partners across the globe.
May this new season bring you warmth, health, and inspiration — and may we continue to grow together through every change of season.
