Frequently asked questions
About the Xiao Liu Ren calculator
These answers explain the date, time and counting rules used by this site, along with the limits of interpreting a result.
Does the calculator use the Gregorian or lunar calendar?
It uses the month and day from the traditional Chinese lunisolar calendar, commonly called the lunar calendar, together with the traditional two-hour period corresponding to your local time. The calculator converts the date reported by your device automatically.
How many readings may I take in one day?
The site does not impose a limit, but repeating the same question encourages selecting only a preferred answer. Record one result for one clearly defined question.
Why does Zi hour begin at 11:00 p.m.?
Each traditional Chinese hour covers roughly two modern hours. Zi runs from 11:00 p.m. through 12:59 a.m., so the calculator changes to Zi at 11:00 p.m.
Why is my manual result different from the calculator?
Check that you used the traditional Chinese calendar date, converted the hour correctly and treated the current position as the first count of the next stage. Different lineages may use different counting rules.
Can I use a result for medical or investment decisions?
No. This site is intended only for learning about Chinese folk culture and for entertainment. For medical, legal, financial or safety decisions, consult a qualified professional and rely on real-world evidence.
Is Xiao Liu Ren the same as Da Liu Ren?
No. Although their names are related, they differ in their inputs, systems and complexity. This site provides only the common six-position Xiao Liu Ren finger-counting method; it does not generate a Da Liu Ren chart.