Lijiang, in Yunnan province, is a renowned tourist destination that many would like to visit, since it sits right next to the mountains and water and is famous for its scenery, stone roads, wooden houses and bridges over gurgling water that tell their own story so you don't want to leave, and if you do, most likely you'll come back.

In winter, there's not a lot to do, but you can relax with the natives in the warm sunshine and see the snow, but that's not all. For example, during the rainy season, you may feel a sense of ease like you've never felt before and, for the locals it's a time when everything seems to pause for awhile. They put everything on hold and simply relish the moment and, the tourists, well, even they're not in the mood to appreciate the azaleas, could just sit on the balcony of the inn and enjoy the falling rain and hanging willows and that alone is fulfilling enough.

The spring rain here comes and goes without much notice. It is never overwhelming, and never heavy wind and rain at the same time. It simply comes straight down gently, cleaning and smoothing the paving stones. And, when it's over, everything is bright and new. Even if you go outside, umbrella in hand, you can feel an overwhelming sense of satisfaction.