Burning paper at crossroads: why crossroads

Walking at night, you can often see on the ground at crossroads a circle drawn in white ash, with a pile of paper ash inside; some circles are not finished, leaving a gap.

This is someone burning paper money to send funds to the deceased. Why choose crossroads for burning paper? The elders say there are several reasons.

First, crossroads lead in all directions, so souls can find their way easily. If burned at home, family might worry the deceased won't recognize the path; at a crossroads, no matter which direction they return from, they can see it.

Second, crossroads are crowded with strong yang energy, with many people coming and going; it is said that things burned for ghosts are less likely to be snatched by other wandering souls.

Third, crossroads are a place of "yin-yang intersection", a passage to another world.

When burning paper, you must first draw a circle; the opening of the circle should face the direction of home, meaning only your own people can take it and others cannot enter. A small gap must be left in the circle so the money can be sent out. After burning, scatter the paper ash and go straight home without looking back.

Passing such a circle, do not step on it or straddle it. Some say if you step on it, you will be sought out at night.

On the nights around the Ghost Festival, Qingming Festival, and the Cold Clothes Festival, such circles are most numerous at crossroads in the north, one after another, some still glowing with a few sparks.

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