Liqiu

Liqiu, one of 24 Chinese solar terms.

Liqiu (立秋) reflects the changing of seasons. Around Liqiu, temperatures drop gradually, and people can feel the start of autumn when the weather is often fine with clear skies and cool air.

Weather:

When we say that autumn has come, this means that there should be five continuous days around Liqiu with an average temperature of between 10℃(50oF) and 22℃(71.6oF). Because China is a big country, different regions may have different weather at the time of Liqiu. Most areas in China at this time are still in hot summer, popularly known as "Autumn Tiger," except the northern areas and regions at a high altitude. Weather statistics show that south China enters autumn by the middle or end of September. On high plateaus and in mountains, there is no autumn at all.

Custom:

In ancient China, every year on the day of Liqiu, the emperor would lead officials to the outskirts of the city to celebrate Liqiu, where soldiers began to drill and prepare for war.

Farming:

Liqiu is extremely important for farmers. There are many old sayings, such as: "If there is thunder on Liqiu, it will be a poor harvest in winter; if it is a sunny day on Liqiu, there will be a good harvest in winter. If the north wind blows before Liqiu there will be rainfall after Liqiu; if the north wind blows after Liqiu there will be drought."

After Liuqiu, there might be natural disasters, such as hailstones, strong winds, and rainstorms, so measures for anti-drought and anti-flood should be taken if possible.

Lifestyle:

Delicious food in the Liqiu season.

Chinese people like to celebrate Liqiu with delicious food. Usually, people should pay attention to their health after Liuqiu. They should try to always be in a happy mood, go to sleep early, and get up early. People should not put on too much clothing too early in the season, letting the body adjust to the changing climate. Of course, exercises are necessary after Liqiu.