Which deity is traditionally welcomed on the fifth day of Chinese New Year?

The deity traditionally welcomed on the fifth day of Chinese New Year is the God of Wealth.

The fifth day is commonly called Po Wu, meaning “破五,” or “breaking the fifth.” In many Chinese communities, it is regarded as the birthday of Caishen, the God of Wealth, making it an important day for seeking prosperity and good fortune. Families may offer food, burn incense, set off firecrackers, or reopen businesses after the holiday break.

Caishen is not always one single figure. Chinese folk and Taoist traditions associate the title with several legendary or historical personalities, including Zhao Gongming, Bi Gan, Fan Li, and Guan Yu in some contexts. That variety explains why depictions and local customs differ.

Regional practice matters: northern Chinese traditions often welcome Caishen on the second day, while southern and overseas Chinese communities commonly emphasize the fifth. Nevertheless, for a quiz asking about the fifth day, “God of Wealth” is the standard canonical answer. The Jade Emperor is associated particularly with the ninth day, and the Kitchen God returns to heaven before the New Year.