How to read good and bad days in the Vietnamese almanac

Choosing an auspicious day before an important event is a long tradition in Vietnam. This guide covers the core factors and how to apply them quickly.

Hoàng đạo and hắc đạo days

Each day is governed by a spirit. A hoàng đạo day is ruled by a benevolent spirit and favors big events; a hắc đạo day is one to avoid. This is the most cited factor, but not the only one.

The 12 Day Officers and 28 Mansions

The 12 Day Officers rotate daily, each suiting different activities — e.g. Thành and Khai are good for openings. The 28 Mansions likewise mark lucky and unlucky stars per day.

Recommended and avoided activities

The old almanac lists what each day is "good for" and "bad for". Favor days where your activity appears under "good", and avoid days where it appears under "bad".

Don't forget the zodiac

A generally good day can still clash with the lead person's zodiac year. Beyond the hoàng đạo factor, avoid days clashing with the animal of whoever leads the event.

Check quickly with the tool

Use the day-picker tool to combine all of the above: choose a range, an activity and a birth year to filter clashing days. See ready lists for weddings, business openings and moving home. To convert lunar–solar dates and see auspicious hours, use the lunar calendar.