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In this “Good Fortune” column, I’d like to share experiences from visiting good fortune spots—presented in an Instagram‑style format.

I also plan to feature good fortune items when I come across something genuinely worthwhile. Beyond that, I’ll write about various topics related to improving fortune, along with other miscellaneous reflections.

In China—often described as the birthplace of yin–yang and the five elements—there is a saying: “First, fate; second, luck; third, feng shui; fourth, hidden virtue; fifth, study.”

“Fate” refers to what Four Pillars (BaZi) calls the natal chart: based on the heavenly stems and earthly branches for the year, month, day, and hour at the moment of birth, one examines a person’s core nature and tendencies.

“Luck” in Four Pillars mainly refers to the ten‑year cycles (da yun), which shift roughly every decade.

“Hidden virtue” means quietly accumulating merit—doing good without seeking recognition or reward, even when no one is watching. “Study,” in other words, means effort: continuing to learn and work steadily.

What we can truly influence are the third, fourth, and fifth: feng shui, hidden virtue, and study (effort). All of them matter, and ranking them may not be very meaningful.

In particular, effort is essential. Even with favorable timing, it is difficult to achieve major success without sustained work. And even when timing is difficult, if you keep applying the right direction with consistent effort, results should follow.

This reflects a simple truth: cause and effect. Every outcome has a cause.