Taiwanese superstitions

And as such, it is essential for them to understand the taboos and superstitions behind several gift giving traditions so that they do not unintentionally disrespect the other party.

During this period of about 15 days, many Taiwanese people celebrate its traditions and more importantly, strictly adhere to the superstitions the come with this occasion.

The wreckage caused by Nian was only stopped when the colour red was placed everywhere, and fireworks and loud noises were set off to scare the beast away.

[1] As such, it is now tradition that during the first day of Lunar New Year, fireworks and firecrackers are set off with the intention to scare away any bad luck, spirits, and/or energies.

[9] It is also believed that by having a thorough cleansing of unwanted objects and the cleaning of the house, it will remove any bad luck and energy that have been accumulated over the past year.

[9] As many believe that the tradition of staying up late on the day before Lunar New Year is to bless their parents with longevity, the superstition behind this practice stems from the legend of Nian attacking ancient Chinese villages.

[1] However, people are expected to purposely leave some portions like the tail or head of the fish at the end of their meals as this indicates that they will have a surplus or abundance of good fortune in the coming year.

In Chinese numerology, the number 7 is considered inauspicious when linked to the Ghost Festival, which begins on the fifteenth night of the seventh month.

According to Taiwanese superstitions, it is believed that if someone picks up an unattended red envelope, he is required to marry the deceased woman of the family who left the red packet on the streets.
An elevator in Taiwan that is missing a button for the fourth floor of a building.
In the Taiwanese culture, gifting clocks and/or watches could be seen as wishing ill upon the recipient.