Lìchūn is the first of the 24 traditional Chinese solar terms, marking the astronomical beginning of spring—usually around February 3–5 on the Gregorian calendar. Literally, 立 (lì) means 'to establish' or 'to begin', and 春 (chūn) means 'spring'; together, they signify the official start of the spring season in the lunisolar calendar system. Unlike meteorological spring, Lìchūn is based on the sun’s position and reflects ancient agricultural wisdom.

This term appears in traditional customs, weather proverbs, poetry, and seasonal health advice—for example, people may eat spring pancakes or take walks outdoors to welcome the new season. It’s not a public holiday but remains culturally significant, especially in rural areas and among those observing seasonal dietary or lifestyle practices. While modern urban life rarely pauses for Lìchūn, it endures as a poetic and symbolic marker of renewal and natural rhythm.