Island Folklore: Taiwanese Tales & 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!

Memories of martyrs help a struggling people find their identity in a brave new world.

This “hill song” records memories of the first Hakkas arriving in Taiwan in the 1600s.

Black Bears and Clouded Leopards were not always black and spotted. This is their tale.

A love story—once each year, two stars cross the “Silver River” for a long-awaited reunion.

The history and activities of the popular festival that marks the coming of summer in Taiwan!