Legend has it that in ancient times a merciful dragon helped out villagers after hearing them pray for rain. However, as the dragon failed to get permission from the "god of heaven" he was imprisoned under a mountain.

Since then, once a year the dragon raises its head to see the world. As a mark of respect and to earn good luck, Chinese do not cut their hair until Longtaitou.

The fact that having a haircut during the first lunar month is seen as inauspicious - people believe if they do their uncle may die - will also contribute to the March 6 rush.

Apart from going for a trim, the Chinese have plenty of activities for that day that are romantically associated with dragon, such as eating noodles, which are referred to that day as "the dragon's beard". Women should also avoid needlework in case they stab the "dragon's eye".