This blog is designed to communicate observations, impressions, and experiences during a 10 month Fulbright scholarship as a visiting professor at the City University of Hong Kong. The views and information presented here do not represent the Fulbright Program or the Department of State

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Yu Lan Festival

From early August to early September of this year traditional Hong Kongers observe Yu Lan or the Hungry Ghost festival. During the month it is believed that human ghosts roam the living world and different forms of offering are provided that include burning incense (most common), flowers, and food. I see remnants of these offerings on street corners and in front of small shops. A local urban playground/park (below) I passed yesterday in Shek Kip Mei is currently dedicated exclusively to the celebration that includes theatrical performances on elaborately constructed stages.



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2 comments:

  1. Leslie KaplanSeptember 1, 2010 at 3:55 AM

    Have you watched any of the Hayao Miyazaki films? There is a lovely one on the hungry ghosts (in Japan, though, I think) called Spirited Away.

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  2. UnknownSeptember 15, 2010 at 6:59 AM

    I could not believe that you would be interested in Yu Lan Festival because it was always so scared to me. I am thinking than you should be interested Cheung Chau Bun Festival. It will be happened in May, and you need to take a ferry to Cheung Chau Island. Cheung Po Tsai Cave is one of the most famous tourist place should not be missed to visit. If I were younger, I would like to take your Sociology class because you sounds liked the interested professor. Cindy

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