The seventh month of the lunar calendar is called Ghost Month in Taiwan. On
the first day of this month, the gate of the Hell are opened and all
the Ghosts will be released in the living world for one month.
This original ritual is based on the Buddhist tale: Mulian (目蓮) rescued his mother from the underworld. Breaking open the gates of hell for everyone else in the process, he is taught by Sakyamuni the Buddha, and save his mother from being a hungry ghost and suffering in Avici Hell. Finally, he do it.
The Keelung Ghost Festival dates back to 1851. This is a well-known traditional Taiwan ritual, held in Keelung for over 150 years. Every year, thousands of tourists come to this small city, and prepare all kinds of foods and burn the paper-money for the spirits of their ancestors. The ritual offer alms giving to relieve the souls of the dead, as well as a means of building social harmony.
Tourists are welcomed to join this perfect blend of religious, cultural and traditional events. While ambling along the street to see the event, visitors may also stop by Miaokou (廟口) Night Market, which is fame for the delicious sea food and local dishes.
Event: 2013 Keelung Ghost Festival
Date: August 10th – 25th, 2013
Place: Keelung Cultural Center, Keelung City, Taiwan
Address: 181, Sin 1st Rd., Jhongjheng District, Keelung City
Transportation:
- By train : Take train from Taipei main station to Keelung station
- By bus : From the Taipei Bus Station to Keelung, buses leave every 10 minutes and go non-stop to Keelung harbor for NT$55 one way.
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