By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team Compilation & Report
The first day of the seventh lunar month, commonly known as Ghost Gate Opening, is a month filled with taboos. Many elders remind people to be especially cautious when traveling or engaging in leisure activities during this period. Despite being a month shrouded in mystery, many travelers still go ahead with their travel plans. Important customs during Ghost Month, aside from avoiding the seaside and dangerous areas, include the following top ten taboos that travelers may want to pay extra attention to.
Avoid playing in the water at the seaside or by streams during Ghost Month (Image / stressfulvisual)
1. When traveling, try to avoid swimming or playing in water at beaches or streams to prevent being taken by water ghosts.
2. Avoid whistling while out at night to prevent attracting the attention of wandering spirits.
3. Avoid randomly patting others on the shoulder while traveling. Folklore says that each person has three flames on their body, located on the crown of the head and both shoulders, which keep wandering spirits at bay. Patting someone’s shoulder is like extinguishing their flame and may attract unwanted spiritual attention.
Try to avoid going out late at night during Ghost Month (Image / StockSnap)
4. Before checking into a hotel, knock on the door to inform any resting spirits inside.
5. When entering a room, do so sideways to avoid blocking the spirits’ exit.
6. Try to avoid choosing hotels that are largely unoccupied, and when booking a room, avoid those on the end.
Remember to knock before entering your hotel room to inform the spirits (Image / Pexels)
7. If you see offerings while out, never take them to eat casually. Taking food meant for spirits can bring bad luck.
8. If you accidentally pass by a funeral site, avoid speaking carelessly or having disrespectful thoughts to prevent drawing the attention of spirits.
Show respect when passing by funeral or offering sites (Image / Taiwan's Divine & Ghostly Legends)
9. Avoid taking photos outdoors late at night, as the yin energy is stronger during this time, especially in remote areas, where photos may capture the presence of spirits.
10. If you see loose change or red envelopes on the ground, don’t pick them up casually, as it may attract spirits to follow you.
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