Starving spooks - Taipei residents feed the spirits for Hungry Ghost FestivalResidents of Taipei visited temples across the capital, offering food to famished spirits as part of the 'Hungry Ghost Festival', as seen in footage on Friday.
"On the seventh month, the gates of hell open, and some ghosts are released, so we will prepare some offerings, for them to have a good meal and drink," explained one local, Mr Chen. "At the end of the month, when the gates close, they can return and watch over our safety in the mortal world."
Locals prepared food and drinks for the ghosts, decorated the streets and took part in religious rituals, inviting the spirits to feast.
"Whether at my company or at home, we would pay our respects every year. Otherwise we would break the rule. For such matters, it only works if you are sincere. We also wish for better afterlives for those living on the other side," said another resident, Mr Chui.
The festival traditionally takes place on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, which falls on August 12 in the year 2022. The whole month is considered 'Ghost Month' when many things are considered taboo; such as getting married, buying a house or even whistling.
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