Guyu season to bring more rainfalls
Print Edition
Guyu (谷雨), or Grain Rain, is the last solar term of spring. Falling on April 20 this year, it marks a period of rising temperatures and increased rainfall.
During this time, regions in the middle and lower Yangtze River experience significantly more rain. As May approaches, southern China sees a rise in severe weather events such as thunderstorms, hail and even tornadoes, necessitating precautionary measures.
Cultural customs during Grain Rain include drinking “Guyu tea” and eating xiangchun, or Chinese toon.
In southern China, spring tea picked during this period, known as “Guyu tea,” is prized for its tender, fragrant leaves and is considered the best for its cooling properties. The young leaves are vibrant green and soft.
Chinese toon, known for its rich flavor and high nutritional value, is also popular during this time. The saying “Toons before the rain are as tender as silk” highlights their quality.
These young shoots, often tied with red cloth and glistening with dew, attract food enthusiasts. Whether stir-fried with eggs or mixed with tofu, Chinese toon adds a unique aroma in the Grain Rain season.
Chinese toon also has medicinal benefits. According to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) pharmacologist Li Shizhen in his “Compendium of Materia Medica,” it can treat various ailments. Traditional Chinese medicine views it as bitter and cold, effective in clearing heat, detoxifying and aiding digestion, making it ideal for late spring consumption.
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