The Longest Ever Sea of Lights: The Taipei Lantern Festival Kicks Off on Zhongshan North Road

Reported by You T-Ru / Taipei

The first highlight of the 2013 Taipei Lantern Festival, the “Happiness Sea of Lights,” was officially launched last night (6th) by Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-pin at the opening ceremony, marking the beginning of this year’s festival. Hau stated that for the first time, the Taipei Lantern Festival has been moved to the Taipei Expo Park, aiming to inject new vitality into Zhongshan and Datong districts, following the legacy of the Taipei Flower Expo, and to accelerate urban revitalization.


▲From now until March 3rd, the dazzling lights will stretch over an impressive 4 kilometers. (Photo / Provided by Taipei City Government)

This year’s sea of lights will be on display from now until March 3rd, featuring brilliant lights stretching over 4 kilometers that will illuminate sections such as Zhongshan North Road, Yuanshan MRT Station to Minquan MRT Station. This year also marks the first time the Taipei Lantern Festival is held at the Taipei Expo Park, allowing visitors to “enjoy the flowers during the day and the lights at night.” Additionally, the theme of this year’s sea of lights incorporates the concept of a “City of Happiness,” as Zhongshan North Road is a historically significant street in Taipei that holds many memories for its residents. Through 20 themed stories along the light displays, visitors can learn about the history and culture of this land and city, making it a unique feature of the Taipei Lantern Festival.

This year’s sea of lights area has been relocated from Renai Road to Zhongshan North Road Sections 1-3 near the Taipei Expo Park, as well as the stretch from Yuanshan MRT Station to Minquan MRT Station, making it the largest and longest sea of lights in the festival’s history. The lights were illuminated ahead of the Lunar New Year to enhance the festive atmosphere across Taipei, and the mayor also welcomes everyone to visit with family and friends during the holiday season to experience the vibrancy and romance of Zhongshan North Road.