Table of Contents
Hakka Tung Blossom Festival
Activities
Hakka Music
Hakka music and dance performances:Hakka music and dance performances are an important part of Hakka cultural heritage. Traditional Hakka music is known for its strong rhythms and expressive singing, often performed during festivals and special events.
- Eight Tones (八音)：An instrumental ensemble using traditional
- Hakka folk dances such as the tea-picking dance (採茶舞)：Reflect daily life and agricultural traditions. These performances not only preserve Hakka history but also bring communities together in celebration and cultural pride.
Local Foods
Tasting local foods:
| * Hakka flat rice noodles：Known as Ban Tiao (粄條), are a traditional Hakka dish made from rice flour. These wide, chewy noodles are often stir-fried with garlic, pork, and vegetables or served in a savory broth. Ban Tiao reflects the simplicity and heartiness of Hakka cuisine, emphasizing texture and natural flavors. It is commonly enjoyed during festivals, family gatherings, and temple fairs, making it a symbol of Hakka culture and hospitality. |  |
| Lei Cha：Also known as “thunder tea” or “ground tea”, is a traditional Hakka tea-based beverage that is rich in flavor, nutrition, and culture. But don't be fooled by the word “tea”—it’s more like a savory drinkable soup, made by grinding a variety of healthy ingredients into a paste, then mixing it with hot water. |  |
Common Ingredients in Lei Cha
- Tea leaves: green tea or oolong
- Nuts & seeds: roasted peanuts, black or white sesame
- Grains & herbs: puffed rice, mung beans, basil, perilla
Sometimes it’s served with rice and side dishes, turning it into a full meal!It’s not just tea—it’s tradition, teamwork, and a little taste of Taiwan’s Hakka soul.
Hiking along tung blossom trails:
| The Tung Blossom festival is an important yearly events in Taiwan's Hakka culture. It's usually held from April to May, when tunng flowers are in full bloom. The flowers are white like snow and cover the mountains, so people also call them “May snow”. |  |
culture & creative market :
At the cultural and creative markets, you can find handmade crafts, artisan soaps, mini oil-paper umbrellas, and other charming little keepsakes.
* Frame: Made from local bamboo, especially Taiwanese guizhu, which is flexible and light
- Canopy: Made of cotton paper, pasted and smoothed by hand
- Coating: Brushed with tung oil to make it waterproof and durable
The most famous production site is Meinong, in southern Taiwan, where skilled craftsmen still make these umbrellas entirely by hand. Each umbrella takes at least two weeks to complete.
Functions and Features
- ✅ Can be used as a sunshade or rain umbrella
- 🎨 Common designs include peonies, “double happiness” characters, and koi fish, all symbolizing good luck
- 🎁 Often used in weddings, as souvenirs, or as decorative items (mini versions are popular gifts)
Cultural Significance:
Symbolizes protection, harmony, and blessings Represents important Hakka and Minnan traditions