Andy Vogel's Taiwan Pages

Temple Processions
At seemingly random times, temple gods are taken out for a parade through the streets. This process is called rao jing, which can be translated as either 'patrolling the district' or 'territorial circuits'. This has both a ceremonial and bureaucratic function, as the gods are believed to be literally checking on the areas under their jurisdiction.
I took this picture during my second month in Taipei, when a parade came through the small alleys in our neighborhood. It was the first time I had seen such a thing, so I was quite impressed.

I told Jenny when she returned home that something important must be going on- she said no, it's probably just somebody's birthday. I didn't believe her, because this was too extravagant for just some personal celebration. She replied, "oh, I mean some god's birthday!"
According to some traditions, the god is to be carried on the shoulders of his worshippers, sitting in his throne. More often, though, small delivery trucks are used.
These large puppets are the most impressive part of the parades. A single person inside the suit carries the load on his shoulders. The arms of the suit usually hang freely and pivot, so as they march in line, the arms swing in a wide, slow rhythm.
These ornate costumes are often eight or nine feet tall and have menacing expressions. It surprises me that I have never seen a small child become frightened by them.
This one also carried snacks hanging from his neck. Some parade watchers ran out to grab a bite.
You can always hear these parades before you see them. The are accompanied by blaring, whining traditional music, which most Westerners find really grating. Click on each picture to see a short video.

Last Updated: 09/09/06