Chinese Symbol for Good Luck

Meaning

The classic symbol of good fortune and blessings. It covers luck, happiness and a good life all at once, which is why it is everywhere at Chinese New Year.

Where the character comes from

Made of 礻 (an altar, a sign of the gods) and 畐 (a full jar): blessings from heaven, or a full and plentiful life.

Words with 福

Using 福 in a tattoo or design

At New Year 福 is hung upside down on purpose: 福倒了 (the fu is upside down) sounds like 福到了 (good fortune has arrived). For a tattoo, write it the right way up.

Read all tattoo tips

Hear how to say it in a sentence: good luck in Chinese