1200 lanterns hang in a dazzling display—spend a day immersed in the Lantern Sea to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival

Text by MOOK Scenic Spots compiled and reported

In addition to the traditional dragon boat races, the “Welcoming the Dragon King Ceremony” (also known as the Dragon King Festival), held before the races, is a unique traditional culture of Lukang and is unmatched across Taiwan.

The Dragon King deity at Longshan Temple is the guardian of sailors, while the Water Deity at Tianhou Temple presides over water bodies. It is said that the custom of welcoming the Dragon King during the Dragon Boat Festival originated in Quanzhou. Since the fifth lunar month was traditionally considered the “poisonous month,” with changeable weather that could easily lead to disease, people would hold ceremonies to welcome the Dragon King for blessings. To this day, Lukang is the only place in Taiwan that still preserves this tradition.

Every year before the dragon boat races in Lukang, the “Dragon King deity” from Longshan Temple and the “Water Deity” from Tianhou Temple are respectfully welcomed as guardians, praying for the smooth, safe, and successful conduct of the Dragon Boat races and various folk activities. The event also combines Dragon Boat Festival traditions with Lukang’s local characteristics through a “Folk Festival Parade,” leaving a deep impression on visitors and showcasing Lukang’s heritage and charm. Coupled with Lukang’s delicious street food, a full day of fun here is definitely enriching and exciting.