The Kitchen God, known as Zao Jun or Zaowang, is usually placed in or near the kitchen. Traditionally he sits above or beside the stove, where he is said to watch over the household. A paper print or a small figure is common. Because stoves produce heat and open flame, keep any paper image out of direct heat, and never place it where it could catch fire.
Who the Kitchen God is
Zao Jun is a household deity in Daoist belief, linked to the kitchen and to food. Folk belief holds that he reports on the household’s conduct to the Jade Emperor each year, which is why families offer sweets around the time of his send-off. Some traditions also show a female form beside him, while others show only the male figure.
Where the Kitchen God usually goes
- On a shelf or small niche above or beside the stove. This is the traditional spot, placed high enough to keep him out of cooking splashes and steam.
- Away from direct heat and flame. Keep the figure clear of the burners and the cooking zone.
- In a dry, clean corner. Some families choose a quieter part of the kitchen, away from the sink and the most active cooking area.
- Where it will not be knocked. Keep the spot tidy, and avoid placing him behind items that are often moved.
What the image or figure needs
A paper image needs dryness and distance from heat, so a shelf away from steam and grease is best. A ceramic or wooden figure needs a stable base and dry air. In either case, check that the figure is secure, so it cannot fall into the stove or the sink.
Little New Year and the annual change
Many families replace the Kitchen God image once a year, around the Lunar New Year. Before the new year, the old image is traditionally sent off, often by burning, and a new one is put in its place. The send-off is commonly held around the 23rd or 24th day of the twelfth lunar month, which is known as Little New Year. Dates and customs vary by region and family, so check with your family or a local temple.
Because burning is restricted in many places, check local fire rules before you burn anything. If you cannot burn the old image safely, ask a local temple about respectful disposal.
Offerings
- Sweets. Sweet foods such as candies are the traditional offering at the send-off. The custom is said to help the god speak well of the household.
- Simple daily offerings. Fruit, tea, or water on the shelf are common. Keep them away from heat and flame.
- Fresh replacement. Replace offerings before they spoil.
Feng shui cautions
- Never place a paper image right above a burning burner or near an open flame.
- Keep it dry. Steam and grease damage paper quickly.
- Check the fixing. Make sure the image or figure is secure and cannot fall onto the stove.
Other household figures nearby
The Kitchen God is one of several household figures. Many families also honour the local earth god near the front door, and they keep ancestral tablets in a separate place. See the Tu Di Gong guide and the ancestor altar guide for those figures.