Awakening of Insects (Jīngzhé)
Spring thunder awakens hibernating creatures. The earth comes to life and all living things begin to stir.
Awakening of Insects (Jīngzhé) — Dates by Year
| Year | Gregorian Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 3/5 | Tue |
| 2025 | 3/5 | Wed |
| 2026← this year | 3/5 | Thu |
| 2027 | 3/6 | Sat |
| 2028 | 3/5 | Sun |
| 2029 | 3/5 | Mon |
| 2030 | 3/5 | Tue |
Introduction
Awakening of Insects (Jīngzhé) is the third solar term, occurring around March 5–7 when the sun reaches 345°. "Jīng" means to startle, "zhé" refers to hibernating creatures — spring thunder awakens insects from their winter sleep. The farming proverb says: "One clap of thunder at Awakening of Insects, and farmers never stop working."
Climate in Taiwan
Around Jīngzhé, Taiwan warms noticeably to 15–22°C in the north, with spring thunderstorms becoming more frequent. Various insects become active, and mosquitoes begin to emerge — time to prepare repellents. Mountain forests burst into bloom with paulownia, chinaberry, and tung blossoms opening in succession, marking a peak season for flower-viewing hikes.
Traditional Customs
Jīngzhé is associated with the folk custom of "beating petty people" (dǎ xiǎo rén) — striking a paper effigy with a shoe to banish malicious people from one's life, practiced at some Taiwanese temples. Eating pears on this day is also traditional: pears moisten the lungs, and their name sounds like "to leave," symbolizing leaving illness and misfortune behind.
Wellness
The surging yang energy of this season makes it ideal for nourishing the liver. Eat lightly and include moistening foods — pears, loquats, and fresh vegetables are in season. The temperature still fluctuates sharply, so keep warm in the morning and evening. Begin more active outdoor exercise like hiking, maintaining the principle of "active but not exhausted."