Minor Snow (Xiǎoxuě)
Temperatures continue to fall and snow becomes possible, though accumulation is light.
Minor Snow (Xiǎoxuě) — Dates by Year
| Year | Gregorian Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 11/22 | Fri |
| 2025 | 11/22 | Sat |
| 2026← this year | 11/22 | Sun |
| 2027 | 11/22 | Mon |
| 2028 | 11/22 | Wed |
| 2029 | 11/22 | Thu |
| 2030 | 11/22 | Fri |
Introduction
Minor Snow (Xiǎoxuě) is the twentieth solar term, occurring around November 22–23 when the sun reaches 240°. "Minor Snow" means temperatures have dropped to the point where snowfall is possible, but quantities are small and ground coverage is limited. Classical texts note: "In mid-tenth month, rain falls and is condensed by cold air, so it freezes to snow. Minor means not yet in full force."
Climate in Taiwan
Snow is extremely rare in Taiwan's lowlands during Minor Snow, but mountains above 3,000m — including Yushan and Hehuanshan — may begin to see their first snowfall. Plains temperatures in the north average 10–18°C. Minor Snow is peak season for baldcypress color changes — the golden-orange forests of Huisun and Xinyi are spectacular and draw autumn visitors from across Taiwan.
Preserved Foods Culture
Minor Snow marks the traditional start of Taiwan's preserved food preparation season. Cooler temperatures and lower humidity create ideal conditions for curing sausages, cured pork, and dried radish. Hakka communities prepare salt-cured pork and dried mustard greens around Minor Snow. Hoklo families make dried radish (cài pǔ) and fermented mustard greens. These hand-prepared preserved foods are treasured family traditions.
Wellness
Minor Snow wellness focuses on warming kidney yang and protecting the heart against cold. In Chinese medicine, winter is associated with the kidneys; eat black-colored foods — black sesame, black beans, black wood ear, and walnuts — to nourish kidney yang. Dress warmly when going out: wear a hat and scarf to keep the head and neck from getting cold. With shorter days, be mindful of low mood — maintain social connections and get outdoors in daylight when possible.