Chinese superstitions are deeply embedded in daily life — influencing everything from wedding dates to business decisions.

Key Numbers

8 (八): Luckiest — sounds like “prosperity.” Phone numbers with 8s command premium prices.

4 (四): Unluckiest — sounds like “death.” Buildings often skip 4th floors.

6 (六): Lucky — sounds like “smooth.”

Taboos

Giving clocks as gifts (送钟 = “attending funeral”). Giving pears (sounds like “separation”). Opening umbrellas indoors. Sweeping on New Year’s Day.

Explore more in our Chinese Culture Complete Guide.

朋克中国

Writer and cultural enthusiast sharing authentic stories about China with the world.