How did I get to Keelung and heard about Pudu? Six months ago, I decided I wanted to travel to East Asia. I didn’t know where I wanted to go, but with a newly earned bachelor’s degree in Asian Studies and an interest in conducting research, I knew I wanted to immerse myself in a culture I had never experienced … Read More
The Keelung Night Parade takes place two weeks after the end of the Ghost Month. When the time comes, huge dancing figures take over the streets of Keelung. The entire city gets wrapped by the smoke from firecrackers and the smell of incense. The usual noise of the motorcycles is replaced by melodies from trumpets and drums. And people of … Read More
Are Aboriginal Taiwanese the ancestors of Polynesians? I explored this claim during my recent visit to Keelung. I’ve been traveling with my family for two years around Asia and the Pacific. Learning about history and culture while we travel is always an interesting way to know more about a place. Coming to Taiwan presented me with the opportunity to explore … Read More
Keelung culture and the Ghost festival are closely intertwined. There are three artisan objects that serve as symbols of the Ghost Festival: molded figurines made of rice (midiao), wooden basket lanterns (doudeng), and paper lanterns. Over time I have been lucky enough to come to know the manufacturer of organic rice dough sculptures, known as midiao. If you search for … Read More
Previously, I talked about Taiwan culture and the heart of the Ghost Festival, which as the name implies, is intended for the spirits. This festival in Keelung is particularly cherished because of the historical background of the city. In summary, the city was first invaded by the Chinese, then by the Spanish, by the Dutch, by the French and then by … Read More
During my time in Keelung, I met so many people and saw many places related to the Ghost Festival, an event closely tied into Taiwan culture. If I had to put into words everything I learned about this festival, I think I could write a thesis; I will try to only share with you a brief version. The Ghost Festival is … Read More
You might think the mysterious island you see just through the mist of the bay (Keelung Islet) is Keelung’s closest island, but that title actually goes to Heping (Peace) Island. Known as Sheliao Island in the past, Heping Island was the area’s earliest development zone before Fujian immigrants came to northern Taiwan, and it has had a rich history since … Read More