What Is the Keelung Ghost Festival?
If you have ever visited Keelung, you have likely heard of its renowned Mid-Summer Ghost Festival (基隆中元祭).
Held during the seventh lunar month, this unique celebration aims at appeasing wandering spirits and keeping them at bay. Observed by both followers of Buddhism and Taoism, it reflects a fascinating blend of spiritual traditions and local customs.
As one of the most important events in the city, the festival plays a central role in Keelung’s cultural landscape. Visitors can now deepen their understanding of this month-long festival at the Mid-Summer Ghost Festival Museum (鷄籠中元文化館), located within Zhupu Altar in Zhongzheng Park.
Highlights of the Exhibition
Step inside and immerse yourself in the mysterious world of Keelung’s Ghost Festival. The exhibition offers a comprehensive journey through the event, introducing the ten major rituals that define the celebration. Visitors can also learn about the clan associations, discover the historical origins of the festival, and gain insight into the beliefs and practices of Buddhism and Taoism.
Along the way, you will encounter the objects used in the vibrant parades, traditional musical instruments, and intricate handicrafts passed down through generations. The exhibition also highlights the people behind the festival who keep these traditions alive year after year.
An English leaflet is provided, making it easy for everyone to appreciate the richness of this cultural experience!
Meanwhile, if you want to learn more about this annual festival, read one of our articles about the Ghost Festival here!
Practical Information
Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 from Tuesday to Sunday
Address
Located on the ground floor of Zhupu Altar (Zhongzheng Park)
No 280, Xin 2 Rd., Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan
How to get to the museum?
You can arrive up to Zhongzheng Park either by foot or by car. There are also some buses that will get you down the Keelung tower, and you will then need to take a short walk up to Zhongzheng Park.
Buses
- Bus 201, 202 or 203, get off at “Keelung Hospital”.
- Take any bus to “Keelung City Government”.
Please note that Keelung Tower is now under renovation. There are a few different ways to access Zhupu Altar:
- Stroll along the Keelung Tower Circle Path starting in front of Comme Café
- Take the elevator located inside Xin 2nd Road Air-raid shelter (open 9am-5pm everyday except on Monday) to access the Fan-shaped plaza, and then walk the rest of the way up to Zuhupu Altar
- Climb up the stairs starting at the Arch of Zhongzheng Park
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