Introduction to the Chinese Lunisolar New Year System
Purpose of This Site
Section titled “Purpose of This Site”This documentation project examines:
- The historical origin of the Chinese lunisolar calendar
- The astronomical structure determining the New Year date
- The transmission of the calendar to neighboring regions
- The evolution of English terminology
The focus is historical and astronomical documentation.
Core Clarifications
Section titled “Core Clarifications”- The calendar system originated in ancient China.
- The New Year date is determined by a Chinese-developed lunisolar framework.
- Korea and Vietnam calculate the date using the same structural rules.
- Japan historically used the same system but abandoned it in 1873.
- The term “Lunar New Year” is a modern umbrella term.
Where to Start
Section titled “Where to Start”- Read The Origin of the Chinese Lunisolar Calendar
- Read How Is the Chinese New Year Date Determined?
- Read Transmission of the Chinese Calendar
Methodology
Section titled “Methodology”All claims are supported by:
- Academic publications
- Historical records
- Astronomical calculations
- Encyclopedic references
This site does not diminish regional traditions. It distinguishes between calendrical origin and cultural evolution.