The Story of Longhu Mountain Lucky Money Talisman

In the late 19th century, a merchant named Li Wen struggled to keep his small silk shop in Suzhou afloat. Debts piled up, and customers dwindled, leaving him on the brink of closure. Desperate, he traveled to Longhu Mountain after hearing tales of Taoist talismans that could turn fortunes around.​

At the Celestial Master’s Mansion, an elderly Taoist named Zhang Daoqing listened to his plight. Instead of immediately drawing a talisman, the Taoist asked Li to help repair the mountain’s stone paths for three days. “Fortune favors those who earn it,” he said.​

On the fourth day, Master Zhang led Li to a hall where he lit sandalwood incense and prepared cinnabar ink mixed with morning dew. With a steady hand, he drew a lucky money talisman on yellow mulberry paper, incorporating symbols of coins and flowing water—ancient representations of wealth and abundance.​

“Carry this with you, but remember: true prosperity comes from honesty,” the Taoist advised, folding the talisman into a small pouch.​

Back in Suzhou, Li hung the talisman above his shop door. More importantly, he followed the Taoist’s unspoken lesson—he treated workers fairly, reduced prices for needy customers, and donated a portion of profits to local schools. Within months, his shop began to thrive. A wealthy merchant, impressed by Li’s reputation for integrity, placed a large order that saved the business.​

Years later, Li visited Longhu Mountain again. Master Zhang smiled when told of his success: “The talisman opens doors, but it’s your actions that keep them open.”​

Today, the story of Li Wen and the lucky money talisman reminds people that while cultural symbols hold meaning, true fortune comes from hard work and kindness. The tradition of Longhu Mountain’s lucky money talismans endures, not just as artifacts, but as reminders of the values that build lasting prosperity.