7th September is White Dew (or Bai Lu, 白露), the 15th China solar term of the year and the third in autumn.
White Dew indicates the real beginning of cool autumn. Swan gooses, swallows and other migratory birds fly south to escape cold; birds start to store up food for winter; farmers are busy with harvesting.
Although the sunshine in daytime continues the heat of summer, temperatures decrease rapidly after sunset. During the night, water vapors in the air form white dew on the grass and trees.
For people in Suzhou, it is traditional to make White Dew Wine during this season. The wine is made of cereals such as polished glutinous rice and gaoliang (Chinese sorghum) and tastes a little sweet.
Gorgon nut is currently widely available across the city. As one of the Eight Aquatic Plants in Suzhou, it is fresh and good for the skin. There are many ways to cook gorgon nuts, such as gorgon nuts fried with shrimp meat, gorgon nut sugary congee and gorgon nuts fried with celery and lily.
Suzhou is one of the major producers of ginkgo fruit. During White Dew, you can expect to find it hidden in the ginkgo grove in Dongshan and Xishan areas. It can be eaten directly or put into other dishes to add special flavor.
Temperatures will vary largely between day and night these days. Remember to dress accordingly.