New Highlight in Keelung’s Night View: Zhongyuan Water Lily Lanterns Illuminate the Riverbanks

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team Compilation & Report

The 163-year-old Keelung Zhongyuan Festival is one of Taiwan’s twelve major tourism festivals, featuring a month-long carnival-like series of rituals held during the seventh lunar month every year. Throughout the festival, the entire city of Keelung is adorned with dazzling lights, especially the nine water lily lanterns on the Tienliao River, which attract many photography enthusiasts. Coupled with the beautiful street scenes and their reflections, the sight leaves visitors truly amazed.

The Zhongyuan Festival commenced on the 22nd with the opening of the ancestral shrine doors at the Keelung City God Temple, kicking off a series of celebratory events. The city of Keelung is lit up everywhere, including the Civic Square, Ocean Plaza, and the Tienliao River light sea, all illuminated at night, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.

This year, in addition to traditional ceremonies, the Zhongyuan Festival features a water lantern parade to open the celebrations, along with a large-scale dance drama showcasing local characteristics. Parade floats have also collaborated with artists to incorporate rich artistic elements, offering high creativity and even more visual appeal. Due to the large crowds expected on the water lantern parade day, the city government will implement traffic controls in the urban area during the evening. Visitors planning to attend are advised to plan their itinerary in advance.