We were standing in front of the popular Xingtian Temple in Taipei, whose principle god is the red-faced, ferocious-looking Kuan-Kung, when my friend turned to me and asked “How can a god of war be worshipped within a religious context?” (Please click or tap on any thumbnail to view it in full screen and make […]
Kuan Kung – The Popular Red-faced God is having a Birthday Read More »
Chinese gardens have been said to be cosmic diagrams, allowing us a view through the sage’s eyes of the world and man’s place in it. These places of solitude have lent themselves over the centuries to poets, artists and scholars.
Traditional Chinese Gardens Read More »
Eunuchs in the Imperial Court of China held influential and secretive roles for centuries. Their castration created a perceived loyalty and objectivity that appealed to the emperors. Eunuchs served as attendants, administrators, and even military leaders. However, their power led to controversies and periodic purges. Despite this, eunuchs played a significant role in Chinese history, shaping politics, culture, and art. Their legacy showcases the intricate dynamics of power in Chinese society, fascinating scholars and historians today.
Eunuchs of the Imperial Court Read More »
The art of making tea is an ancient one. In Taiwan and China, years of study and practice are required to earn the title of ‘Tea Master’. Therefore, to be in the presence of a professional tea master during a tea ceremony, is not only an honor, but an experience of a lifetime.
The Art of Tea : A Ladies’ Tea Ceremony Experience Read More »
While waiting for my friends in the open plaza outside Zhongshan Hall, formerly known as Taipei City Hall, I pondered over Japan’s enduring impact on Taiwan. The building’s history and architectural details had fascinated me during my research, reminiscent of a bygone era.
From the Sidewalks of Taipei – Zhongshan Hall Read More »
Dozens of Taipei dragon boat teams have gathered for months along the Tamsui and Xindian rivers, practicing for the 2017 Dragon Boat Festival, an ancient celebration that ignites passion and enthusiasm across all age groups. Lucky charms and sachets abound.
Kite season in Taiwan usually gets underway at the beginning of April. However, with all the mild, sunny days that Taipei has been having so far this winter, people are heading to open spaces such as the plaza adjoining the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, to fly kites. On a recent visit there, friends and I counted five kites flying high in the sky. They were magnificent to watch as they danced and bobbed in the gusts of wind.
There’s something invigorating about celebrating Lunar New Year in Taiwan. Perhaps it’s the steady buildup of enthusiasm and expectation as the eve of the New Year approaches and that the long preparation list of traditional things-to-do has been completed.
Ringing in the Year of the Fire Rooster Read More »
In a quiet, remote village in southeastern Bali, far from the beaten tourist paths, is the village of Tenganan, a community of indigenous weavers. It is here that the ancient technique of double ikat weaving is found, one of Indonesia’s rarest forms of textile weaving. (Please click or tap on any thumbnail to view it
The Samyama Gallery – a Treasure Chest for Fine Indonesian Textiles Read More »
Each year in Taiwan, as the first day of the seventh month of the Chinese lunar calendar draws near, ghosts are on everyone’s mid. For it is on this day that the gates of Hell are opened and hordes of hungry ghosts rush forth to eat, drink and collect “ghost money” from the living.
