Passing on the culture of Donggang King Boat Ceremony

The deafening Chinese percussion instruments and colorful temple umbrellas are characteristic signs of the majestic deity Wangye, aka the Royal Lord. The triennial “Donggang King Boat Ceremony” is not only a grand occasion for the residents of Donggang but also a major cultural festival in Taiwan.

However, long-term population outflow is a serious issue in Donggang, and many of its young people study in other counties and cities. The triennial Donggang King Boat Ceremony has become a fantastic opportunity for native Dongangers living in other parts of the country to return home. In addition to setting an example by personally taking part in the event, young students also repay Wangye’s blessings by carrying the palanquin and participating in temple ceremonies. The youngsters hope their participation will gradually change societal stereotypes regarding such temple activities.

Donggang King Boat Ceremony is a cultural festival with local roots that not only attracts the participation of many young people and teaches traditional crafts, but also combines professional fields such as image design, etc. Such elements imbue Donggang King Boat Ceremony with a distinctive flavor that is proving successful in passing on ancient temple ceremonies to younger generations.

以下為中文對照

震耳欲聾的鑼鼓聲、五顏六色的廟會涼傘，顯示出王爺出巡時的威嚴。三年一度的「東港迎王祭」，不僅是全國性的文化祭典，對於東港居民來說，更是當地的一大盛事。

然而，東港鎮長年人口外移，許多年輕人在外縣市求學工作。三年一度的迎王祭典便成了外地遊子返家的好時機。年輕學子除了會身體力行參與遶境，也會透過抬轎等廟會儀式報答王爺的保佑，並期望透過自身的力量，改變社會大眾對宮廟活動的刻板印象。

迎王祭作為當地的文化根源，在傳承上除了吸引更多年輕人參與、學習傳統工藝技術外，也能結合影像設計等等不同領域的專業，讓迎王祭呈現不一樣的風貌，使祭典古法能持續傳承下去。

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