Hongkongers learn how to ‘break the gates of hell’ for Hungry Ghost Festival
Solemn ritual is traditionally performed by Taoist priests for funerals, but workshop offers residents chance to give the practice a go
Forming a circle in front of a temple in Yuen Long, a group of Hongkongers makes sweeping, dance-like movements before smashing ceramic tiles on the ground with wooden swords under the guidance of their coach.
They are learning to perform the solemn ritual of “breaking hell’s gate”, a traditional funeral practice that is typically performed by Taoist priests and long considered taboo by many.
Thursday’s workshop was part of a three-day “soul deliverance” ceremony at Tin Hau Temple in Yuen Long’s Tai Shu Ha to mark this year’s Hungry Ghost Festival.
The festival is celebrated during the seventh lunar month, with activities reaching their peak during the middle of the period, which falls on Saturday.