Today is the Equinox, a day marking the changing of seasons. In the northern hemisphere and in China the day welcomes Spring and warmer days. But just last night a rare bout of snow fell on China's capital. Cold though it may be, it lifted residents' spirits in the city which has lately been shrouded in haze.

Just when the winter coats have been packed away, Beijing was unexpectedly draped in white again.

The snow came in the early hours of Wednesday, as Tuesday's rain switched to snowflakes under low temperatures.

But unlike the previous snow storms that chilled the city, this time the flakes fell on happy ground.

"I'm very glad about the snow. I read on Weibo that many people plan to take photos in the Forbidden City. Smoggy weather has been depressing, but today's snow cheered me up," a resident said.

Indeed we're all breathing a lot more easier thanks to the snow, and under the clearer skies, many are touring the city with their cameras to capture the rare moment of Beijing wrapped in white at this time of year. Social media sites are awash with snaps, and even some master shots.

Wednesday marks Chunfen, one of the 24 solar terms of the Chinese traditional calendar. It is the Spring or Vernal Equinox, marking the time when day and night are about equal in lengths after which the nights will become shorter.

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