Koufu food & Huilong Market The second generation owner of Koufu Food, Chen Yuan Yuan On a cool afternoon in Keelung, Taiwan, the aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air as we make our way to Koufu Food (口福食品) on Ren’er Road, where fried twisted dough and buns have become synonymous with the bakery. However, the second-generation owner, Chen … Read More
In large and small ceremonies, Taoist priests wearing Taoist robes can be seen performing pujas on the spot, chanting words. In the eyes of ordinary people, Taoist priests are at different levels from us “Muggles”. “The hot man, shuttling through one puja after another, is there any secret that is unknown? In their eyes, what kind of existence is … 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
I recently had the privilege of joining a very special walking tour with Keelung For A Walk: The Ghost Festival Tour. Despite the fact that there are currently no English tours happening (and likely won’t be for some time as COVID-19 has meant such restrictive travel measures), I was able to accompany the group for a Chinese tour, of which … Read More
Throughout the year, there are many Keelung festivals to visit. Most of these festivals operate according to the Chinese Lunar calender, so dates will vary from year to year. If you are planning on visiting Keelung or Taipei during these times, make sure you do not miss these lively festivities as Keelungers love a good reason to celebrate! February/ March … Read More
Keelung Indigenous Culture Hall Taiwan culture has many stories to tell. One way of learning the history is through Keelung’s many museums, the Indigenous Culture Hall being a good place to start. There are two ways to explore this museum. One is to follow the route through the building; the other is to use the road outside the building. If this … 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