Learn more about Spring Festival
Discover traditions, greetings, and celebration guides
What is 鱼?
A whole steamed fish is the centerpiece of Spring Festival dining, symbolizing surplus, prosperity, and abundance for the coming year. The word for fish 'yu' sounds like 'surplus' or 'plenty', making it essential New Year food.
The Story Behind 鱼
The fish arrives at the table whole—eyes intact, tail pointing up—a complete creature representing completeness in life. The eldest family member is served first, taking the first bite from the top. Then the fish is divided, each piece placed before different family members with purpose: the head goes to the elder, the middle to the breadwinner, the tail to the youngest. Nothing is wasted; the message is clear—may we have abundance all year, with more left over (有余) than we started with.
Cultural Meaning
'Fish' (鱼 yú) sounds exactly like 'surplus' (余 yú), symbolizing that you'll have more than enough in the coming year. The whole fish represents completeness—no part is missing. Leaving leftovers means your prosperity will overflow into the next year.
Historical Origins
Eating fish during New Year dates back to at least the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD). During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the whole steamed fish became the specific New Year tradition, with elaborate etiquette around serving and eating it. Different fish species became associated with different blessings.
Regional Variations
Northern China: Yellow croaker (黄花鱼) steamed with ginger and scallions. Guangdong: Whole steamed sea bass with soy sauce. Sichuan: Spicy fish with bean paste. Coastal regions: Fresh local catches steamed simply.
When to Eat
Chinese New Year's Eve dinner (essential), New Year's Day meals, and throughout the first week for continued prosperity.
With Whom
Immediate family at New Year's Eve reunion dinner (年夜饭), visiting relatives during Spring Festival, and business partners at New Year banquets.
How to Pronounce
yúYú (YOO) - Simple, rising tone, like saying 'you' but with a question. Practice: 'YOO'.
How to Order
'Wǒ yào yì tiáo zhěng yú' (I want a whole fish). 'Qǐng gěi wǒ yì tiáo xīn xiān de' (Please give me a fresh one). 'Qīng zhēng de' (Steamed, please). 'Duōshao qián yì tiáo?' (How much for one?)
Tips & Traditions
- 1Always serve whole—never cut into steaks for New Year
- 2Fish head should face the most senior person or guest of honor
- 3Leave leftovers deliberately for 'surplus' (有余)
- 4Steam with ginger, scallions, and light soy for best flavor
- 5Common fish: carp, sea bass, yellow croaker, tilapia
What to Avoid
- !NEVER turn the fish over—bad luck (船翻 means boat capsizing)
- !NEVER eat all of it—must leave some for 'surplus'
- !NEVER serve fish without head and tail—incomplete misfortune
Ready to Celebrate?
Explore full festival guides and tools for every occasion