What is "Liqiu" (Start of Autumn)?

Liqiu, meaning "Start of Autumn", is the 13th of China's 24 solar terms, usually occurring around August 7–8. It marks:
🌤️ Seasonal Transition – The official start of autumn (though summer heat often lingers).
🌾 Agricultural Significance – Farmers begin harvesting crops like rice and corn.
📉 Natural Changes – Days shorten, temperatures slowly drop, and leaves start turning yellow.
🍲 Cultural Traditions – People eat seasonal foods (e.g., "autumn peaches," dumplings) to welcome cooler weather.
Fun Fact: There’s a saying, "One falling leaf heralds autumn" (一叶知秋), meaning small signs can signal big changes.