Photos reveal beauty of four seasons at Palace Museum

Winter Solstice (Chinese: 冬至), the 22nd solar term of the year, began this year on Dec 22 and ended on Jan 6. It begins when the Sun reaches the celestial longitude of 270° and ends when it reaches the longitude of 285°. Winter Solstice Day is considered as one major and important Chinese festival in the lunar calendar which is still celebrated and valued today. By celebrating this traditional festival, the Chinese would reunion and have dumplings made by them. In ancient times, the emperor would hold a solemn heaven worship ceremony and common people would offer sacrifice to their late parents and ancestors. For more information, please read:9 things you may not know about Winter Solstice. [Photo by Wang Jin/Palace Museum]