Will my red backpack offend Asians?

[GeekyLynn]

I'm about to backpack all through Asia - China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, etc. I just purchased a heavy-duty backpack that's black and bright red, but now I'm looking at it wondering if this might offend anyone. Do you think a traveler's red backpack might make anyone from any Asian country think you have a particular alliance?

Thanks so much!
Lynn

[sammy snake]

Am I missing something here? Or is a red backpack a problem in Asia?

[GeekyLynn]

sammy snake -

I'm hoping it won't be a problem, but red can be a symbolic color. For instance, it could be representative of China, could cause problems in Taiwan. Conceviably it could represent the flags of Japan or N Korea too. I believe in China red symbolizes good luck - for instance money is given in red packets and brides wear red on their wedding days.

I just thought I'd throw out the question because I've gotten flak for wearing red shirts in Northern Ireland before.

[ojread2]

but in Asia you'll look like a tourist so they'll just take you for the 'geekylynn' that you are lol

The Chinese will think you want loads of luck anyway :)

I'll be interested in any other replies because when I read your message yesterday I thought you were on a wind up

ojx

[SteveD]

Have a read here:

http://www.crystal-cure.com/color-meanings.htm l

[matt_london]

MY GF's backpack was red and no one said anything to her or gave her any funny looks.
It will be fine!