Yes, the Chinese calendar does have weeks, but they function differently compared to the weeks in the Gregorian calendar that most people are familiar with. In the Chinese calendar, the concept of a week is often associated with a ten-day cycle known as a ‘decade’ or ‘shū,’ which is part of a larger system that includes the 12 earthly branches and the 10 heavenly stems.
Instead of the typical seven-day week, traditional Chinese timekeeping utilizes this ten-day period that repeats. However, it’s important to note that in modern usage, especially in urban areas, many people refer to and use the standard seven-day week aligned with the international calendar for convenience.
This makes the concept of weeks in the Chinese calendar somewhat dualistic, where traditional practices coexist with global influences. Understanding this nuance is essential when studying Chinese timekeeping and cultural practices.