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Four must-see lantern festivals around Asia
In addition to the Waisak celebration in Borobudur Temple, several other places in Asia also create paper lanterns and release them during special festivals.
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Originally, Nagasaki Lantern Festival was part of the celebrations for Chinese New Year, which was commemorated by ethnic Chinese people living in Nagasaki, Japan. (Shutterstock/File)
E
very year, thousands of people flock to Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java, to celebrate Waisak (Buddha's Day of Enlightenment).
During the celebration, both Buddhists and non-Buddhists usually observe the rituals, which include releasing thousands of lanterns.
In addition to the Waisak celebration in Borobudur Temple, Agoda.com has shared some other places in Asia where people create paper lanterns and release them during special festivals.
Here are the four places across Asia where you can enjoy lantern festivals, as compiled by kompas.com.
Hoi An, Vietnam
In the old town of Hoi An, Vietnam, a lantern festival is held every full moon, giving visitors plenty of opportunity to catch this spectacle.
During the celebration, all the lights in the ancient city are turned off, showcasing the beauty of colorful lanterns floating in the sky.
Singapore
In Singapore, the Mid-Autumn Festival is synonymous with moon cake and lanterns.
The former is a food staple during the festival and it comes in various flavors, varying from the classic red bean or lotus seed paste to durian.
As for the lanterns, they can usually be found in every corner of Chinatown. They come in different shapes and colors, showcasing the artist’s creativity.
Read also: Thousands of lanterns light up Singkawang for Chinese New Year
Seoul, South Korea
Seoul Lantern Festival is held every November in Cheonggyecheon district, Seoul.
The annual festival showcases hundreds of giant lanterns made by local artists. Tourists are also welcome to write their wishes and release the lanterns.
Nagasaki, Japan
Originally, Nagasaki Lantern Festival was part of the celebrations for Chinese New Year, which was commemorated by ethnic Chinese people living in Nagasaki, Japan.
However, in 1990, the celebration was transformed into Nagasaki Lantern Festival. Located in Nagasaki Chinatown, the area is usually decorated with more than 15,000 lanterns.
In addition to the lanterns, the festival also features several activities, including fireworks, lion dance and Chinese acrobatics. (jes/kes)
