Setiap tahun selama Festival Lentera (Yuanxiao Jie), Festival Petasan Sarang Lebah Yanshui di Kota Tainan menarik perhatian ribuan wisatawan, menjadikannya salah satu festival rakyat paling ikonik di Taiwan. Festival ini terkenal tidak hanya karena pertunjukan kembang api yang spektakuler dan suasana yang meriah, tetapi juga karena sejarah dan latar belakang budaya yang unik, yang membuatnya memiliki reputasi internasional. Berdasarkan pemeringkatan oleh stasiun televisi ABC Australia, Festival Petasan Sarang Lebah Yanshui pernah masuk dalam urutan ketiga dalam “10 Festival paling berbahaya dunia” dan merupakan satu-satunya festival dari Asia yang masuk dalam daftar ini.
Sejarah Festival Petasan Yanshui
Festival ini dapat ditelusuri kembali ke zaman Dinasti Qing, ketika penduduk setempat memohon perlindungan dari Dewa Guan Shengdijun untuk mengusir wabah penyakit dengan cara menyalakan petasan untuk mengusir kejahatan. Seiring berjalannya waktu, tradisi ini berkembang menjadi Festival Petasan Sarang Lebah Yanshui yang kita kenal sekarang, menjadi kesempatan luar biasa untuk memahami kepercayaan agama dan budaya rakyat Taiwan.
Pada tahun 2025, festival ini akan berlangsung pada tanggal 11-12 Februari, mari kita lihat bagaimana cara bergabung dalam festival yang penuh tantangan ini!
The origins of the Yanshui Beehive Fireworks can be traced back to the Qing Dynasty when residents, plagued by an epidemic, prayed to Guan Sheng Dijun for protection and used firecrackers to ward off misfortune. (Photo/ Screenshot from KKday)
The Process of Making Yanshui Beehive Fireworks
The craftsmanship of Yanshui Beehive Fireworks is intricate. Below is an overview of the process:
▶ Framework Construction: Wooden slats or iron bars are used to build the basic structure, forming the firework nests or firework castles.
▶ Installation of Sky Rockets: A mesh-like material is placed on the frame, into which hundreds of skyrockets are inserted.
▶ Connecting the Firework Cores: All the firework cores are connected, allowing them to ignite simultaneously.
▶ Adjusting the Firing Angles: Firework castles are designed at various angles for enhanced visual effects.
▶ Placing the Fire Core: A central ignition core is installed within the wooden frame to ignite the entire structure.
▶ Decorating the Exterior: Unique arrangements and decorations are added to enhance the aesthetic appeal.
This combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques makes Yanshui Beehive Fireworks a truly unique and spectacular folk event.
Event Schedule and Activities
The main event day falls on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year, featuring a variety of exciting activities:
▶ Lantern Festival Night (Approx. 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM) – The peak of the event, where tens of thousands gather to witness the breathtaking firework spectacle.
▶ Firework Formations: Local communities and businesses sponsor intricately designed firework formations, often featuring dragon and lion shapes.
▶ Divine Procession: Participants can follow the deity sedan chair's route, experiencing Taiwan’s deep-rooted traditions.
Transportation & Safety Tips
There are several ways to reach Yanshui Beehive Fireworks. Here are some recommendations:
▶ By Air: After arriving in Taiwan, take the high-speed rail (HSR) or train to Tainan, then transfer to a bus bound for Yanshui.
▶ Private Car & Shuttle Service: Due to traffic control measures, chartered car services are recommended to avoid parking difficulties.
▶ Public Transport: Take Ubus or Ho-Hsin Bus to Xinying Bus Station, then transfer to a local bus to Yanshui.
Traffic Control for Yanshui Beehive Fireworks (Photo/ Screenshot from Explore Taiwan)
Essential Safety Precautions
To ensure safety, participants should wear protective gear, including long-sleeved clothing, helmets, and masks to prevent burns from firework sparks. Additionally, wearing comfortable shoes and carrying water and light snacks is essential for maintaining energy levels during the festival.
An Unforgettable Cultural Experience
The Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival is not just a visual spectacle but also a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in Taiwan’s rich traditions. With 2025’s festival approaching, don’t miss out on this thrilling folk celebration—experience Taiwan’s cultural charm like never before!
Source: Explore Taiwan
