HKFP Lens: Hong Kong village marks Hungry Ghost Festival with rituals, feasts and more

Hong Kong Free Press

The Hungry Ghost Festival, also known as Yu Lan Festival, is a time when the gates of the afterlife are believed to open, allowing spirits to roam freely among the living.

Kyle_HKFP_20230828w-1 — Devotees build a 5-metre tall figure called “Dashiye” by bamboo and paper, representing “the king of ghosts” who stands guard during the Hungry Ghost Festival. Photo: Kyle Lam/HKFP.

Devotees believe that the 15th day of the seventh lunar month holds great significance for the people of Hong Kong. Marked by rituals rooted in Chinese folklore, the festival is a time when families come together to honour their ancestors and pay respects to wandering spirits – often through elaborate feasts placed on makeshift tables on the streets.

Kyle_HKFP_20230828w-2 — The elder leaders of the villager prays to god, offer food and items to appease the wandering spirits. Photo: Kyle Lam/HKFP.

It is believed that these offerings will satisfy the hungry ghosts and bring good fortune to the living.

Kyle_HKFP_20230828w-4 — Villagers rest in the booth while waiting for the next observance event. Photo: Kyle Lam/HKFP.

In the Yuen Long village of Tai Kong Po, villagers of all ages gather for three days to celebrate the Hungry Ghost Festival, burning effigies and paying tribute to the gods.