In this article, we'll share tips on how to stay warm and cozy as winter takes hold.

01. Eat Dumplings

CHINESE LEGENDS

During the Eastern Han Dynasty, the Chinese physician 張仲景 (Zhāng Zhòng jǐng) saved a lot of people from a devastating typhoid epidemic. As the winter cold descended, he noticed that many suffered from a severe cold, and their ears were particularly vulnerable to frostbite.

He made a special dish made from mutton, chili pepper and herbs, known for their warming properties. He wrapped these ingredients in dough, shaping them like ears. This is how dumplings were born!

吃餃子
chī jiǎo zi
to eat dumplings

Today, there is a saying, "Eat dumplings on the day that marks the Beginning of Winter, or your ears will get frostbite". Thanks to the old tradition, restaurants specializing in 餃子 (jiǎo zi) are bustling with customers lining up to get this comfort food.

02. Eat Hotpot

Hotpot is great for warming up in cold weather. When you dip ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and noodles into the hot broth, they quickly absorb the warmth, raising your internal body temperature.

吃火鍋
chī huǒ guō
to eat hotpot

Sharing a hotpot meal with friends or family often involves gathering around a heated pot, which provides a cozy atmosphere.

TEACHERS RECOMMEND

Here are hotpot restaurants recommended by our teachers:

海底撈
Hǎi dǐ lāo
Haidilao Hotpot restaurant
Sichuan-style hotpot

湊湊
Còu còu
Coucou Hotpot?Brew Tea
Taiwanese-style hotpot

03. Keep a Hot Water Bottle Handy

Hot water in China serves as more than just a means of hydration; it's a fundamental aspect of daily life. Many Chinese people prefer to consume warm or hot beverages throughout the day, rather than cold drinks.

喝熱水
hē rè shuǐ
to drink hot water

TEACHERS RECOMMEND

Our teachers recommended getting a thermos to experience the local culture. In China, thermos flasks are a must, especially in cold weather, as they keep hot drinks like tea or soup on hand all day.

熱水瓶
rè shuǐ píng
thermos flask; thermos bottle

04. Wear Thermal Clothing

Whether you're out and about in the bustling streets of Shanghai or exploring the landscapes of the Great Wall, you can stay cozy by getting special thermal clothing. Here are some keywords for your Taobao search:

保暖內(nèi)衣
bǎo nuǎn nèi yī
thermal underwear

保暖背心
bǎo nuǎn bèi xīn
thermal long-sleeve shirt

保暖褲
bǎo nuǎn kù
thermal pants

保暖絲襪
bǎo nuǎn sī wà
thermal stockings

NOTE

To get an extra warm edition, when shopping online, include the term "加絨加厚" (jiā róng jiā hòu) along with the words above. For example, 加絨加厚保暖褲 (jiā róng jiā hòu bǎo nuǎn kù), "fleece-lined-thickened-thermal-pants".

加絨加厚
jiā róng jiā hòu
fleece-lined and thickened
lit. "add-velvet-add-thick"

05. Use Accessories

These items are what you need in China during winter. You can find them on Taobao or ask at a local store:

取暖器
qǔ nuǎn qì
room heater

電熱毯
diàn rè tǎn
electric blanket

To use an electric blanket and heater safely, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take necessary precautions.

保暖熱貼
bǎo nuǎn rè tiē
thermal patch, thermal pad

These small, portable packs contain heating elements that, when activated, emit warmth for several hours. They can be placed in pockets, gloves, or even stuck to clothing to provide localized warmth.

06. Eat Roasted Vegetables

Throughout winter, you will see these two popular food items sold in the streets. Roasted sweet potatoes and corn are not only enjoyed for their taste, but also for the warmth they provide during the cooler months.

烤紅薯
kǎo hóng shǔ
roasted sweet potato(es)

烤玉米
kǎo yù mǐ
roasted corn

Source: That's Mandarin
Editor: wanwan