Culture Insider: China's Ghost Festival

A girl in a "haunted house" in China. [Photo/IC]

5. Don't say the word "ghost"

The ghosts are everywhere during Zhongyuan Festival, so it's better and safer to not say the word "ghost", and also don't say other improper words, in case they decide to take revenge on you.

6. Don't step on paper ghost money

The paper ghost money is sacrifice for spirits, and ghosts are always gathering around the money. If you step on their money, they will be angry and may harm you.

7. Don't pat other people's shoulders

The folklore believes that there are three bunches of fire on each person, head and two shoulders, to avoid evil spirits. If you pat other people's shoulder, you may make their protective fire die out.

8. Be careful in turning your head

If you are walking in forest or a sparsely populated area, and if you hear someone calling you, don't turn around, you may see something scary.

During the Ghost Festival, just go home early and try to have a vegetarian diet.