TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Hsuan Wu Temple (台東玄武堂) launched the annual "Bombing of Master Han Dan" (炸寒單) folk event in Taitung on Tuesday (March 3), drawing participation from international exchange students eager to experience the vibrant Taiwanese tradition. Students from India, Germany, and the United States volunteered to engage closely with the age-old ritual, which left a lasting impression on their understanding of local beliefs and festive customs.
The "Bombing of Master Han Dan" is a highlight of the Taitung Lantern Festival parade. A live performer, embodying the "Flesh Body of Master Han Dan" (肉身寒單爺), courageously stands atop a sedan chair to endure firecracker bombardments. The students found the event exhilarating and shared that the intense experience deepened their appreciation for Taiwan's cultural heritage.
Some foreign students attempted to act as firecracker handlers, tasked with igniting the explosives. Their unfamiliarity with the process led to initial difficulties, but they successfully completed the task with assistance from on-site personnel. The event's organizers noted that this year marked the return of foreign student participation after pandemic-related restrictions.
Students from over ten countries attended the event, immersing themselves in the local folk culture. Both the school and event organizers believe that hands-on involvement helps foreign students gain a deeper understanding of Taiwanese traditions, fostering cultural exchange. As the "Bombing of Master Han Dan" continues to captivate participants from around the globe, the event demonstrates the power of cultural engagement in building bridges across diverse backgrounds.