The 7th of August is the Start of Chinese Autumn, the 13th solar term of the year, and the first in autumn.
Start of Autumn reflects the end of summer, but the hot days will last another 30 days. This period is called “Autumn Tiger“. Because of decreasing precipitation, it is even more sweltering during this period than during Major Heat.
There is a saying: “If it rains on the day of the Start of Autumn, a good harvest is expected.” It is time to gather crops, thus becoming a major solar term for farmers.
People usually lose weight during the summer. The best way to make up for the loss is to flesh out in autumn by eating many kinds of food, especially meat.
Suzhou locals eat watermelons during the Start of Autumn, and they call it “Biting the Autumn“. The whole family will sit together and “bite” watermelons to welcome the arrival of autumn.
People in Suzhou are particularly fond of seasonal food. Gorgon nut usually hits the shelves during the Start of Autumn, and the market will be swamped with customers buying this delicacy. It is customary to have a bowl of fresh gorgon nut these days.
The hot weather will hold out in the next few weeks. Remember to stay away from the heat and maintain anti-epidemic measures.