Taiwanese Superstitions
In everyday life across Taiwan, people often joke that “Taiwanese culture has around
240 little superstitions” — not as strict rules, but as friendly reminders about
luck, respect, and keeping good vibes at home.
Many of these beliefs connect to the lunar calendar6,
especially the festive rhythm of Lunar New Year1
and the mindful season known as Ghost Month32.
Others come from sound-alike wordplay in Chinese languages (for example, why many people prefer to avoid the number
4)5.
Home & Daily Life Superstitions
Everyday habits that many families follow lightly, especially when starting something new.
Right Foot In
Many prefer stepping into a new home with the right foot for a smooth start.
Don’t Sweep Over Feet
Sweeping over someone’s feet is said to sweep away their luck; lift the broom and smile.
Night Sweeping Is Avoided
Some households avoid sweeping after dark so good fortune doesn’t “leave” with the dust.
Mirror Facing the Bed
A mirror aimed at the bed is often turned aside to keep sleep feeling calm and settled.
Mind the Threshold
Stepping on a doorway threshold is often avoided; step over it with care.
Hat on the Table
Placing hats on dining tables is commonly avoided, especially during meals.
Shoes Face Outward
Shoes pointed toward the door can feel like “sending” a person away; many turn them inward.
Don’t Leave Scissors Open
Open scissors left out are thought to invite tension; close them and store safely.
Avoid Sewing on Your Body
Sewing while wearing the garment is sometimes avoided because it “stitches in” misfortune.
Bed Placement Matters
Beds are often placed so feet don’t point directly at the door, for comfort and tradition.
Photos in Tight Spaces
Some people avoid taking photos in very dark, quiet places late at night, just in case.
Don’t Point at the Moon
Pointing at the moon is playfully discouraged; use an open hand instead.
Don’t Dry Clothes Overnight
Hanging wet clothes outside overnight is sometimes avoided, especially in certain lunar periods.
Avoid Loud Whistling at Night
Night whistling is often skipped; it’s said to “call” unwanted attention.
Fix Small Breaks Quickly
A dripping tap or flickering bulb is treated as a “leak” in luck—repairing it feels like a reset.
Money, Business & Gift Etiquette
Everyday habits that many families follow lightly, especially when starting something new.
Red Envelopes: Even Numbers
When giving a red envelope, even numbers are commonly preferred for “double” blessings.
Avoid Amounts With 4
Amounts with the number 4 are often skipped because of sound symbolism in Chinese.
Give With Both Hands
Gifts and envelopes are often offered and received with both hands to show respect.
Avoid Giving a Clock
Clocks can sound like “seeing someone off,” so many choose another gift.
Umbrellas as Gifts
Umbrellas can imply separation; if given, some add a coin so it feels “bought,” not gifted.
Shoes as Gifts
Shoes can suggest someone will “walk away,” so many avoid them for close relationships.
Sharp Objects Need a Coin
Knives or scissors as gifts may be paired with a coin so the receiver “purchases” them.
Mirrors as Gifts Are Tricky
Mirrors can feel intense as gifts; many avoid them unless requested.
Choose Bright Wrapping
Cheerful colors are often chosen for celebratory gifts; subdued tones are saved for formal moments.
First Sale Sets the Tone
Some shopkeepers treat the first sale as lucky and prefer not to refuse it.
Keep a Fresh Bill
A crisp bill in the wallet around New Year is a popular “starter” for prosperity.
Coin in the Pocket
Carrying a coin on a big day is a simple good-luck habit many enjoy.
Don’t Lend Money on New Year’s Day
Some avoid lending on the first day so money doesn’t “flow out” all year.
Open the Year With Good Words
Business greetings on day one are kept upbeat; harsh talk is avoided to prevent “jinxing” momentum.
Receipt Ritual
Some keep the first receipt of a new shop or job as a tiny token of steady income.
Numbers, Words & Symbolic Sounds
Sound-alike wordplay is a big theme: certain numbers and phrases feel lucky or unlucky because of how they sound.5
Eight Feels Fortunate
The number 8 is loved because it sounds like “prosper” in Mandarin and Taiwanese contexts.
No Four in Building Numbers
You’ll often see 4th floors skipped or relabeled; it’s a common numerology preference.
Good News First
When sharing updates, many lead with the positive to “set” the mood of the day.
Avoid Writing Names in Red
Writing a person’s name in red ink can feel disrespectful; black or blue is preferred.
Pears Can Mean Parting
Sharing a pear can sound like “separation,” so some avoid splitting pears with a partner.
Salt and Blessings
Salt can symbolize purification; a pinch near the doorway is a folk habit in some homes.
Protective Symbols at the Door
Door charms, talismans, or auspicious characters are used to invite good energy.
Upside-Down ‘Fu’
An upside-down ‘Fu’ character can symbolize fortune “arriving” in the home.
Say ‘Good Fortune’ Before Big Steps
Before exams, travel, or new jobs, people may offer quick auspicious phrases.
Avoid Saying ‘Goodbye’ at the Door
Some prefer a softer send-off, stepping outside first, then waving.
Don’t Jinx It
Praising a plan too early may be followed by a light “knock” gesture to keep things steady.
Dream Words Are Handled Gently
Disturbing dreams are sometimes not discussed at breakfast to avoid “bringing it into the day.”
Lucky License Plates
People may pick plate numbers with 8s and avoid 4s when choices are available.
Screen Wallpaper Luck
A pineapple, koi, or lucky cat wallpaper is a modern “pocket charm.”
Avoid ‘Empty’ Words
Phrases implying emptiness can be avoided on special days; people swap in fuller, warmer wording.
Lunar New Year & Seasonal Traditions
These customs are especially visible around Lunar New Year1 and other seasonal festivals.
Deep Clean Before New Year
Cleaning before Lunar New Year is said to sweep away misfortune and welcome a fresh start.
No Sweeping on New Year’s Day
Many avoid sweeping on day one so luck isn’t “swept out” immediately.
Skip Hair Washing on Day One
Some avoid washing hair on the first day to keep good fortune from “washing away.”
Firecrackers for a Fresh Start
Noise and red color are traditional ways to push away bad vibes and welcome the year.
New Year Envelopes for Blessings
Red envelopes are given as a symbol of protection and good wishes.
Pineapple for ‘Prosperity Comes’
Pineapple is popular because of its lucky sound in Taiwanese Hokkien.
Long Greens, Long Life
Some prefer long leafy greens at reunion meals to symbolize longevity.
Fish for Surplus
Fish at New Year meals symbolizes having extra, year after year.
Mandarins for Luck
Mandarins and oranges are shared because their names echo “good fortune.”
Light the Home
Keeping the home bright during New Year feels welcoming to luck and warmth.
Don’t Open Envelopes in Front of the Giver
Some people open later to keep the moment polite and comfortable.
First Visitor Matters
In some families, the first visitor of the year is considered a “tone setter.”
Avoid Giving Odd Numbers at Celebrations
Even-numbered gifts or amounts are commonly preferred for doubling happiness.
Lantern Festival Sweetness
At Lantern Festival, sweet rice balls can represent togetherness and a round, complete year.
Spring Couplets at the Door
Red couplets and auspicious characters are posted to invite blessings into the home.
Ghost Month & Temple Etiquette
During Ghost Month, many people choose calmer routines and extra etiquette for peace of mind.32
One of Taiwan’s most famous events is the Keelung Zhongyuan Ghost Festival, known for its lanterns, offerings, and community ceremonies.24
Ghost Month Awareness
During the 7th lunar month, some people keep routines calm and avoid big changes.
Lanterns Guide the Way
Lanterns and lights can be used in festivals to guide spirits respectfully.
Offerings Are Left Undisturbed
Roadside or temple offerings are not stepped over or moved; people walk around them.
Incense With Intention
If visiting a temple, incense is offered calmly; many avoid playful behavior at altars.
Ask Before Filming Rituals
Some ceremonies prefer a quieter atmosphere; asking first is considered courteous.
Avoid Late-Night Swimming
Some avoid swimming at night during Ghost Month, choosing daytime water activities instead.
Postpone Moving House
Relocating during Ghost Month is sometimes postponed if the family prefers to avoid it.
Delay Weddings if Possible
Some couples avoid scheduling weddings in Ghost Month and choose a different lunar date.
Hold Off on Big Purchases
Buying cars or making major commitments may be delayed by those who follow the custom.
Avoid Taking Mirrors Outside at Night
A niche belief says mirrors can “catch” things; many simply keep them stored.
Don’t Hang Wind Chimes Near Beds
During Ghost Month, wind chimes near sleeping areas are sometimes removed for peace.
Don’t Tap Someone’s Shoulders
A folk idea says protective “flames” sit on shoulders; people avoid surprising touches.
No Cutting Offerings Mid-Ritual
Food set out for a rite is usually left whole until the ritual ends.
Respect Temple Rules
Different temples have different customs; reading posted signs is the safest etiquette.
Keep Talk Positive
Ghost Month conversations are often kept gentle; people focus on gratitude and family.
Food & Dining Superstitions
Everyday habits that many families follow lightly, especially when starting something new.
No Chopsticks Upright in Rice
Chopsticks stuck upright resemble incense; they are placed on a rest instead for good manners.
Don’t Drum Chopsticks
Tapping chopsticks on bowls can feel impolite; it’s avoided at family meals.
Long Noodles, Long Life
Birthday noodles are often served uncut to symbolize longevity.
Leave a Little for ‘Surplus’
At celebratory meals, some leave a small bite to symbolize having extra.
Fruit Plates for Fresh Luck
Offering fruit to guests is a small sign of welcome and bright beginnings.
Tea Is Poured for Everyone
In group meals, tea is poured around the table as a gesture of care.
Tap Fingers to Say Thanks
A light finger tap near the cup is a common way to thank someone pouring tea.
Dumplings for Wealth
Dumplings can symbolize wealth; they’re popular in New Year and family gatherings.
Pineapple Snacks for Good Fortune
Pineapple cakes and pineapple treats carry a cheerful lucky association.
Garlic for Protection
Some households keep garlic in the kitchen as a traditional protective ingredient.
Sweet Foods for Sweet Days
Sweets are favored at festivals to invite a smooth, pleasant year.
First Bite Matters
Some take the first bite after elders, as a gesture of respect and good manners.
Don’t Flip a Fish
When eating a whole fish, flipping it over can be avoided; people remove the spine instead.
Offer the Best Piece
Offering the best bite to elders or guests is seen as sharing good fortune.
Clink With Eye Contact
At toasts, eye contact can be part of “good luck” etiquette—friendly and mindful.
Relationships, Weddings & Family Moments
Everyday habits that many families follow lightly, especially when starting something new.
Choose Auspicious Dates
Many couples consult the lunar calendar to pick a day that feels supportive.
Avoid White for Weddings
Bright, celebratory colors are often preferred; white is saved for more formal contexts.
Don’t Gift Pears to Couples
Because of the “separation” sound, pears may be skipped as a couple’s gift.
Wedding Red Envelopes Are Sealed
Envelopes are usually sealed; it looks neat and keeps blessings “contained.”
Knots for Togetherness
Decorative knots symbolize connection; they’re common in wedding decor.
Firecrackers for Joy
In some areas, firecrackers mark happy milestones and invite good energy.
Pregnancy Announcements Are Gentle
Some families wait for a stable time before sharing big news publicly.
Baby Gifts Avoid Sharp Items
Soft, cozy gifts are preferred; sharp items can feel too ‘cutting’ symbolically.
Don’t Praise a Baby Too Loudly
Some families keep compliments modest, offering warm wishes without ‘over-spotlighting.’
New Baby Red Envelope
A small envelope for a baby can symbolize protection and a good start.
Ancestor Remembrance
Family offerings on important days can be a way to feel connected across generations.
Don’t Visit New Parents Empty-Handed
Bringing fruit or a small practical gift is seen as thoughtful.
No Mirrors Facing Cribs
Some avoid mirrors near cribs so the room feels quiet and grounded.
Birthday Candle Wishes
Wishes are often made silently before blowing candles—keeping the wish ‘safe.’
Leaving With Good Words
After family gatherings, people prefer friendly parting words to ‘carry’ warmth home.
Travel, Moving & Modern City Life
Everyday habits that many families follow lightly, especially when starting something new.
Pack a Lucky Token
A coin, a small charm, or a red string can be a simple travel confidence booster.
Start Trips on a ‘Good’ Day
Some choose travel dates with lucky numbers, especially for big journeys.
Avoid Saying ‘It’ll Be Easy’
People may stay modest about a trip and instead say ‘May it go smoothly.’
Skip Room Numbers With 4
If given a choice, some travelers avoid rooms with 4 and choose 8s.
Moving-In Entry Ritual
On move-in day, some bring rice, salt, and tea first to symbolize stability.
Key First, Then Luggage
A small habit: enter with keys first, then bags, to ‘open’ the home properly.
Light Before Sleeping
In a new place, some turn on lights for a few minutes before bed to feel settled.
Don’t Move an Old Broom In
Some buy a new broom after moving, so old dust doesn’t follow.
Bring a Living Plant
A small plant is a popular housewarming symbol of growth.
Office Desk Faces
Some people prefer not to sit with their back to the door for a sense of ease.
Pen Placement
Keeping pens and tools tidy is seen as preventing ‘scattered’ luck at work.
Avoid Signing Big Contracts During Ghost Month
Those who follow the custom may schedule major signatures outside that lunar month.
New Car ‘First Drive’
A first drive to a temple or scenic spot is a cheerful way some mark a new car.
Don’t Set a Broken Screen Wallpaper
Replacing cracked screens or wallpapers is a modern ‘no bad vibes’ habit.
Rainy-Day Optimism
A sudden shower is sometimes read as cleansing—an excuse to reset and start fresh.
Practical Tips for Visitors and Newcomers
If you want to be extra considerate, these three habits cover most situations:
offer items with both hands,
avoid “4” in gift amounts5,
and follow local festival etiquette during major lunar dates.1
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Taiwanese superstitions the same everywhere in Taiwan?
Not exactly. You’ll hear variations by city, family background, and generation. Many customs are shared across Chinese-speaking communities,
but Taiwan has its own local festival traditions and temple life that shape how people practice them.
Do people truly believe every item on this list?
Often, these are lightly held habits—things people do “just in case,” or because it feels polite,
comforting, or culturally familiar.
What’s the easiest “do no harm” approach?
Keep your tone friendly, respect sacred spaces, and mirror what locals do. If someone says, “We don’t do that,” simply switch course.
In Taiwan, that kind of flexible kindness is already good etiquette.
Sources
- Taiwan Tourism Administration — Traditional Festivals: Lunar New Year — Government tourism overview of Lunar New Year customs in Taiwan, including cleaning and auspicious door decorations.
- Taiwan Religious Culture Map (Ministry of the Interior) — Keelung Zhongyuan Ghost Festival — Official Ministry of the Interior cultural map page on the Keelung Zhongyuan Ghost Festival and Ghost Month context.
- National Chengchi University — The Ghost Month Festival in Taiwan — University explainer of Ghost Month in Taiwan, written for international audiences and focused on etiquette and meaning.
- Culture and Tourism Bureau, Keelung City — Mid-summer Ghost Festival Museum — Local government culture bureau page for the Mid-summer Ghost Festival Museum in Keelung.
- USC Digital Folklore Archives — Chinese Number Four — University folklore archive explaining why the number 4 is widely avoided due to pronunciation associations.
- Columbia University — Asia for Educators: The Lunar Calendar & Spring Festival — University resource on the lunar calendar and how traditional festival dates are calculated and understood.
- Ghost Festival — Wikipedia — Reference overview of the Ghost Festival (Zhongyuan/Yulanpen), including timing in the lunar calendar and common observances.