In Asia, there is a cultural Buddhist and Taoist tradition, which has been observed since ancient times; one that many respectfully fear… it is the month when the gates of Hades are open and ghosts, including those of deceased ancestors leave the lower realms to visit the living on earth. According to the Chinese lunar calendar, this exodus always occurs on the fifteenth night, at midnight, of the seventh month allowing the ghosts to wander wherever they wish for the next thirty days. There are several names associated with this tradition that have developed over the years; Hungry Ghost Month, Hungry Ghost Festival, the Festival of Hungry Ghosts, Ghost Festival or just plain Ghost Month.
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This Article was published in the Magazine “Centered on Taipei” Issue of August 2015 (Vol.15 | 10)
Pages 21, 22 and 23, Text : Sue Babcock – Images : Web
