The Origin of Guyu: Celebrating the First Rains of Spring In China, a traditional festival called Guyu, or 'Grain Rain', marks the arrival of the sixth solar term in the East Asian calendar. The festival falls around April 20th each year and is celebrated in many parts of the country, especially in southwestern regions like Sichuan and Yunnan. But where does the name 'Guyu' come from, and why is this festival so important to the Chinese people? To answer these questions, we need to delve into the history and folklore surrounding this ancient calendar term. The word 'Guyu' literally translates to 'rain of millet', reflecting the fact that the sixth solar term marks the time when farmers begin to plant millet and other crops that rely on spring rain. When this rain finally arrives, it brings new life to the parched earth, nourishing the soil and preparing it for the growing season ahead. According to Chinese folklore, the origin of Guyu can be traced back to a legendary figure named Ji Zhong, who lived during the Zhou dynasty (1046-256 BC). Ji Zhong was a minister and astronomer in the court of King Wu, who tasked him with creating a calendar to track the changing seasons and predict the best times for farming and other activities. Ji Zhong observed that during the sixth solar term, the rains were most abundant, and farmers would begin to plant their crops in earnest. He thus named this term 'Guyu', giving it a special significance in the calendar that endures to this day. The festival of Guyu has long been associated with agricultural rituals and traditions. In ancient times, people would offer sacrifices to the gods of rain and fertility, asking for their blessings on the upcoming harvest. They would also perform dances and music, often featuring elaborate dragon and lion costumes, to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to their communities. Today, Guyu is still celebrated in many parts of China, albeit in more subdued ways. People may eat special foods like boiled eggs, fresh greens, and millet porridge, or perform acts of charity and goodwill to honor the spirit of the festival. Whether you're a farmer, a city dweller, or a foreign visitor to China, Guyu offers a chance to reflect on the beauty and importance of the natural world. As the first rains of spring wash away the dust and grime of winter, we are reminded of the deep connections between humanity and the cycles of the earth.