Culture

Ghost Month : A Holiday for Feeding Hungry Ghosts

There is an ancient Chinese custom, which is observed on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month. At this time, the Gates of Hell are opened allowing all the hungry ghosts of the dead to rush through them. As these ghosts scramble to reach the earth’s surface, people from Taiwan’s towns, villages and communities

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Kuan Kung – The Popular Red-faced God is having a Birthday

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

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Eunuchs of the Imperial Court

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.

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Up, Up and Away

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.

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