Rain Water

雨水 · Yǔshuǐ. The second solar term, usually February 18–19.

Red lanterns hanging before a pale moon
Solar term雨水Yǔshuǐ

Rain Water describes the seasonal shift from snow and frost toward more frequent rain.

Story & background

A solar term is a point in the sun's annual path, not a fixed public holiday. The 24 terms helped traditional communities read seasonal change, weather, and agricultural timing.

Customs

  • Notice the seasonal changes described by the term.
  • Compare how the same term feels in different regions of China.
  • Treat the term as a seasonal marker rather than a rule for every family.

Festival food

Seasonal foods vary by region and household. A solar term does not prescribe one national dish, so ask what is familiar locally.

Try this

Learn the Chinese name and ask: 这个节气有什么习俗?(Zhège jiéqì yǒu shénme xísú?)

Dates in this guide

2026: 2026-02-18 · 2027: 2027-02-19 · 2028: 2028-02-19

Useful word雨水YǔshuǐRain Water