Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

Private Prayers and Public Parades—Exploring the Religious Life of Taipei

By Mark Caltonhill



Religion is a vibrant part of Taiwanese society; Taipei is no exception. This book is a guide to the colorful and active religions found throughout the city, something that even religious scholars may have a hard time understanding. Beginning with the formal religions (Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism), the author continues on to cover the topic through mythology, the practices and rituals observed in daily life of residents, and how the forces of religion manifests itself in various stages of people’s life. From festivals to fortune-telling, this book is a great introductory material to understanding local folk religions.