Hsinchu Temple Holds Traditional Coming-of-Age Ceremony for 700 Students

Hsinchu City's historic Zhulian Temple hosted a traditional 'Zuo Shiliu' coming-of-age ceremony, drawing over 700 high school students. The event, coinciding with the Qixi Festival, marks a significant cultural milestone for Taiwanese youth. Students participated in rituals such as 'Ruan Jiao Jiao' (softening the feet), 'Tuo Quan' (removing the ankle cord), and drinking ceremonial wine, symbolizing their transition from childhood to adulthood. These rites signify the acceptance of personal responsibility for their actions as they mature. Many parents accompanied their children, creating a warm atmosphere and capturing precious memories of their youth. Zhulian Temple emphasized that 'Zuo Shiliu' is more than a custom; it's a life ritual about gratitude, responsibility, and growth. The ceremony aims to guide young people in understanding the importance of their choices and cherishing those who support them. Guangfu High School alone saw 400 students participate in a group registration. The temple highlighted that the Hsinchu 'Zuo Shiliu' ceremony carries deep faith in Qiniangma and local cultural memories, ensuring the continuation of precious folk traditions across generations.

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Zuo Shiliu is not just a long-standing tradition, but a life ritual about gratitude, responsibility, and growth.