Deputy Minister Chiu stated that the Bamboo Oil Torch Procession is a major cultural event that only takes place in Beipu and nowhere else in Taiwan. Now in its 8th edition, every year, it attracts numerous locals and visitors from other regions. The procession stands out for the bamboo oil torches that reconnect the “dragon vein”—a major energy channel according to Feng Shui. It has become a cultural call to action in Beipu. Whether local or visitor, anyone who identifies with the idea and cherishes Hakka culture can join.
The traditional Oil Bamboo Torch Festival originated in the Japanese colonial era. Concerned that their control would be threatened by the influential power of Beipu at the time, they built a straight road behind the Citian Temple in an attempt to break away the “dragon vein” running through Beipu. After the retreat of the Republic of China government to Taiwan, wishing to restore such “dragon vein”, the Beipu locals took the initiative to cross the mountain of Xiuluan holding bamboo oil torches, forming a “fire dragon” with their procession on the night of the Lantern Festival. The action turned into a custom and cultural activity passed down across generations of Hakka people in Beipu, a shared memory of all locals.
The 2026 Oil Bamboo Torch Festival will take place on February 27 and 28 at Citian Temple, Beipu Old Street, and Xiuluan Mountain. The event includes DIY experiences for oil bamboo torches, interactive games of Hakka lantern riddles, traditional Hakka village games of chance, short flower appreciation trips around the mountain, a rice food market, and music shows at the temple square. In addition, the Coming True Fire Group, in addition to Buzen Tengu Daiko and Buzen Kagurasyūdan Jyaraku—performing groups from Beipu’s international friend city, Buzen, Japan, will deliver exhilarating performances. The hope is that more travelers can learn about Beipu and experience the unique charm of the Lantern Festival in Hakka villages side by side with locals.
