Editor of Mom’s Daily Helen
When kids are excited for summer vacation, it also means that the lunar seventh month is just around the corner. This year, the Hungry Ghost Festival begins on August 11th. Although we live in an age that values science, many still observe minor taboos during Ghost Month. Let’s take a look at what to watch out for, so you and your family can have fun traveling and return home safely.
The biggest taboo of the lunar seventh month when it comes to travel is the seaside. I’m sure many have heard the legend of water ghosts dragging souls away. Moreover, it seems like there are more accidents during this time. As a result, elders often advise staying away from the sea and dangerous waters during Ghost Month. That way, impulsive young people won’t act recklessly, jump into unknown waters without understanding them, and risk tragic accidents.
In reality, swimming in the summer is inevitable. The most important thing is never to swim in unmanaged mountain streams or areas marked as no-swimming zones. Avoid thrill-seeking activities like diving or swimming across fast-moving rivers. If you really want to enjoy the water, choose safe, lifeguard-monitored spots, and don’t forget to warm up and wear proper swimming gear before getting in.
This is a taboo most of us have heard since childhood. Whenever you stay somewhere, remember to knock politely before opening the door. That way, you won’t suddenly startle any wandering spirits resting inside and affect their mood. So, when entering someone else’s “home,” be respectful and knock to announce your presence. Also, try to enter sideways to avoid facing them directly—helping everyone get a good night’s sleep.
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Nighttime is when these spirits are most active, so let them have their peace. It’s best to avoid night outings. Of course, beyond the spiritual reasons, it’s genuinely more dangerous to be out alone at night. You could run into someone even scarier than ghosts. So not only during Ghost Month—but for safety in general—it’s wise to limit late-night outings.
Also, while traveling, try not to take random photos. Since you’re unfamiliar with the area, you might not know what’s appropriate. For example, tour guides will usually tell travelers not to take photos of temples or Buddha statues. Some cemeteries are even tourist attractions, but accidentally capturing the wrong image might not just mean a “ghost in the photo”—it could invite unwanted attention back home.
Spirits can judge where the living are based on the direction your shoes are pointing. If you place your slippers with the toes toward the bed, they might climb in and sleep with you. Be careful: before sleeping, kick your slippers around or place them facing opposite directions. Leaving them neatly by the bed might pique the curiosity of otherworldly visitors and lead to them joining you at night (also known as sleep paralysis).
Some say trees—especially banyans—are particularly good at attracting negative energy. They often appear in rural folklore because of their dense foliage. Feng shui experts believe they may absorb spiritual energy more strongly than other plants, making them a hotspot for lingering spirits. Plus, banyan trees have thick shade. While elders love resting under them, during Ghost Month—when yin energy is strong—it’s best to avoid lingering alone under such trees at night. Walls are another spot to be cautious of, as spirits like resting against them. For them, it’s a cool and comfortable place too, so it’s better not to disturb them.
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Although there are many taboos about traveling during Ghost Month, don’t take superstitions too literally. Many are simply warnings from elders to keep young people vigilant. Don’t let summer vacation loosen your guard or make you forget safety in the excitement. If you travel during Ghost Month, it’s wise to stay extra cautious. When in doubt, play it safe. Follow these little taboos, and you’ll have a fun and safe trip.
Executive Editor \ Helen