Start of Spring offers a taste of the year ahead

For many Chinese families, the first sign of spring is tasted rather than seen. Spring pancakes, spring rolls and the ancient idea of the spring platter all carry the same message: renewal begins at the table.

As the first of China's 24 solar terms, Start of Spring marks the turning of the seasons and reflects a long-held philosophy of eating in harmony with nature. Food follows time, and seasonal rituals anchor everyday life. The tradition of eating spring pancakes on this day — known as yao chun, or "biting into spring" — is one of the most enduring expressions of that belief.