Varve chronology is regarded as a relatively accurate dating method for the late Quaternary, particularly for the Holocene. There are only a few lakes officially reported with annual lamination in China, including Xiaolongwan, Sihailongwan and Erlongwan in Longgang Volcanic Field, Sugan Lake in Chadam Basin, Xinluhai Lake and Kusai Lake on the Tibetan Plateau. Varve-based chronologies have been established in these lakes. Most studies on varved sediments have focused on the reconstructions of paleoenvironment. In this paper, we have introduced the research progresses on varve chronology, summarized the "annual" characteristics of varved lake sediments in China, and emphasized the varve counting, error estimate and verification. We also have pointed out the problems existing in the varve studies that should be paied attentions in the future. This study will standardize the varve chronology researches and promote the development of varve chronologies of lake sediments in China.