As an old saying goes among the coastal villages in Weihai, swallows fly back on the Tomb Sweeping Day and fishermen start off on the day of the Grain Rain.

Grain Rain refers to the period between April 19th and 21st, when there is a sharp increase in rain falls, watering crops in time for spring. At this time, fishermen will start making their way for their first voyage in of the year. This is held in high regard and grandly celebrated by the local people.

The custom of fishing in Grain Rain is largely attributed to the hard and dangerous nature of fishing. Back in the first half of 20th century, without the assistance of weather forecast, the fishermen risked their lives in the patchy waters. As a result, they owed a good harvest to the gods, who protected them from the stormy seas. Therefore, fishing villiages have been attaching great importance to the rituals on Grain Rain and to the compliance with related rules, reflecting their wishes for a bumper harvest and safe lives.