Island Folklore

An online repository of Taiwan’s folktales, legends, myths and traditions.

Red Cloak

As newcomers settled in Taiwan, they faced the terror of the island’s notorious headhunters.

Fairies, genies and demons—Eurasian hinterlands are home to mythical beings, like Taiwan’s “mô-sîn-á.”

Ghost stories are not always scary. This is one characterized by joy, friendship and kindness.

Part II of the tragic, bloody tale of the Lady of the Hala Trees.

Beneath the Hala Tree, a tragic maiden’s spirit lingers. This is her tale.

The seventh lunar month is widely known in Taiwan as Guǐyuè, literally “Ghost Month.”

Under Tung blossoms, a new folk festival spearheads Taiwan’s modern Hakka cultural revival!