Lantern show to enhance cross-Straits exchanges

Huang Yafen (right), deputy director of Jinmen's cultural agency, shows the dog-shaped lantern which will hand out to visitors for free during the 2018 Jinmen Lantern Show. [Photo/ cnr.cn]

A promotional activity of 2018 Jinmen Lantern Show was held in Xiamen on Feb 27, inviting visitors from Chinese mainland to witness the extravaganza.

The lantern show is set to take place from March 2 to 4 in Taiwan island's Jinmen, and will be themed "Year of the Dog".

The main lantern is designed based on an eight-meter high Scholar Dog, integrating Jinmen's ancient battle field and city gate to present the city's unique features.

There are also ten auxiliary lanterns showcasing Jinmen's local culture.

Commander-in-Chief Department, a famous historical site in Jinmen, will serve as the event's main venue and its other three venues are also the city's famous scenic spots, namely, Wujiang Collage, Qiu Lianggong's ancient residence, and Temple of the City Gods.

"During the three-day event, a series of activities will also be organized, such as art performances, cultural and creative products exhibitions, treasure hunts, and guessing lantern riddles," said Huang Yafen, deputy director of Jinmen's cultural agency.

Huang hopes to promote emotional communication between cross-Straits residents by traditional cultural activities, such as the lantern show and she welcomed visitors from Chinese mainland to celebrate the traditional Lantern Festival in Jinmen.

At present, dozens of liners, a first choice for cross-Straits residents, shuttle between Xiamen and Jinmen every day, contributing immensely to Jinmen's tourism industry.