Daxue, or Major Snow, is the twenty-first solar term among the 24 solar terms, occurring when the sun reaches the celestial longitude of 255 degrees. The term "Daxue" indicates that the weather is colder, with a higher likelihood of snowfall compared to Xiaoxue (Minor Snow). After the Daxue solar term, the days continue to shorten, and the nights gradually lengthen. Daxue signifies the amount of heavy snowfall and, like Xiaoxue, Yushui (Rain Water), and Guyu (Grain Rain), directly reflects precipitation levels. 

Meteorological conditions  

During the Daxue period, most regions in China have entered winter, with minimum temperatures dropping to 0°C or below. In areas where strong cold air fronts meet warm air, heavy snow and even blizzards may occur. At this time, the Yellow River basin is beginning to see accumulating snow, while in the northern regions, snowflakes are falling in abundance.

Cultural significance 

"Pickling vegetables during Xiaoxue, pickling meat during Daxue." As Daxue arrives, families busily start to preserve "salty goods." After several days, these items are taken out and hung under the sunlight to dry, preparing for the Spring Festival.

Daxue is an excellent time for "tonifying" the body. After this solar term, the weather becomes quite cold. In the Baotou area of Inner Mongolia, there is a saying: "Kill pigs during Xiaoxue, slaughter sheep during Daxue." Eating lamb during the Daxue period is believed to replenish energy and enhance the ability to withstand the cold.