With Halloween right around the corner, you may not know that Taiwan is full of folklore, legends, and traditions! While some are a bit spooky, not all ghosts are malicious; often, they are respected ancestors and deities. But like all supernatural tales, there are always a few mischievous spirits lurking. This month, we dive into the thrilling folklore and fascinating cultural side of Taiwan.

Science Within Folklore

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Taiwan Calling

No trip to Yilan is complete without visiting Tudigong, the Earth God with a down-to-earth vibe. Enter A_ROOT, a 6-member band that blends Taiwanese folk music with modern rock to bring folklore to life. Their unique tunes, often about spirits seeking closure, invite us to confront our fears and explore Taiwan's spiritual heritage in a fresh, exciting way.

Beeru on the Island

Ghost Month in Taiwan, observed during the 7th month of the lunar calendar, is a time when the spirits of the deceased are believed to return to the world of the living. Throughout the month, Taiwanese people honor these spirits through rituals, food offerings, and incense burning to ensure peace and protection. But beware, there are plenty of taboos and superstitions to watch out for.

The Pursuit of a Cinematic Dream

Austin Lin, star of the 2022 Taiwanese supernatural comedy-mystery "Marry My Dead Body," has taken on a wide range of roles beyond his portrayal of a ghostly husband. Learn more about his journey as an actor, the challenges he faced in bringing this unique character to life, and his ambitions as a leading figure in Taiwanese cinema.

Halloween isn’t the only time people in Taiwan dress up. Heavily influenced by the popularity of Japanese anime and manga, Taiwan has a vibrant cosplay, or 'costume play,' community. Beyond representing their favorite fictional characters, this subculture allows individuals to express themselves freely through costume design, makeup, community building with like-minded peers, and even job opportunities.