The traditional Chinese lunar calendar divides the year into 24 solar terms. In China, the 24 solar terms were created thousands of years ago to guide agricultural production.
Rain Water stands for the increase in rainfall and rise in temperature. With its arrival, lively spring—like scenery starts: the river water melt, wild geese fly from south to north, and trees and grass turn green again.
Here are four things you may not know about Rain Water
Rain in spring is as precious as oil.
According to an old Chinese saying, the rainfall in spring is as precious as oil. In northern China the spring drought is common and the rain of this season is only 10 to 15 percent of yearly average(平均) rainfall.
Return of a cold period
Extra care is needed to deal with a returning cold time in the late spring that often happens during Rain Water. The fast increase in air humidity(湿度) can result in lower temperature and wet weather.
Visit to in-laws(姻亲)
One of the main customs during Rain Water is sons-in-law visiting their in-laws and giving gifts. According to the tradition, gifts are usually two cane chairs with four meters of red belt which represents good health and long life. Another typical gift is a pot of cooked dish that contains pig's knuckles(蹄) with soya and kelp. The son-in-law expresses his respect and thankfulness this way.
Nutritious porridge
The wet and damp weather during Rain Water is considered harmful to people's health according to Chinese medical practice. So a bowl of nutritious porridge is the best choice to keep the body alive and healthy.
