Few travel experiences are as symbolic and unforgettable as watching your hopes and dreams float into the sky. While releasing sky lanterns has become increasingly popular in different parts of Asia—and has even started trending as a group activity in the Philippines—nothing compares to experiencing this tradition where it has become an enduring cultural icon.
That was exactly what awaited us in Shifen, one of Taiwan‘s most charming mountain towns. Even outside the annual Sky Lantern Festival, visitors from around the world flock to this historic village to write their wishes on colorful lanterns before releasing them into the heavens.
It was an experience that combined culture, tradition, and a little bit of childlike wonder.
Arriving at Shifen Old Street
Our vehicle stopped near the Coal Mine Museum, where we began our leisurely walk toward Shifen Old Street and the historic Shifen Station along the famous Pingxi Line.
Almost immediately, the atmosphere felt festive.
Rows of bamboo poles lined the narrow street, while cheerful laughter echoed in every direction. Then I looked up and saw them—sky lanterns rising gracefully one after another, slowly disappearing into the cloudy afternoon sky.
It was mesmerizing.
As we moved closer, we discovered something even more unique. Instead of launching lanterns from an open field, people released them directly from the railway tracks. The tracks, which still accommodate passing trains several times a day, temporarily transformed into a gathering place where strangers shared smiles, hopes, and unforgettable memories.
A Street Full of Stories and Souvenirs
On both sides of the railroad stood rows of charming shops.
Some sold colorful lanterns, while others tempted visitors with Taiwanese street food, handcrafted souvenirs, and local delicacies. The old street buzzed with excitement as families, couples, and groups of friends prepared for their own lantern-launching experience.
Before long, we were ushered into one of the lantern shops.
A friendly staff member handed us a guide explaining the meaning behind each lantern color.
Each color symbolized a different blessing—health, wealth, success, love, peace, and many others.
After much discussion, our group chose a pink sky lantern, representing bliss and happiness.
It felt like the perfect choice.
Writing Our Wishes Together
The lantern had four blank sides, each waiting to be filled with dreams and prayers.
Since I was considered the artist of our group, I was handed the calligraphy brush.
I happily accepted the role.
On the first side, I sketched our smiling faces and wrote our names beneath each drawing. I made sure to include Cheya, our “home-based guide” and the person who inspired this Taiwan adventure, as well as Peter, our cheerful driver and guide who had been taking good care of us throughout the trip.
The second side became a space for our personal wishes and prayers, along with intentions for our dear friends.
On the third side, we lovingly wrote the names of our family members, entrusting them to God’s care and protection.
Finally, on the last side, we wrote something bigger than ourselves—a heartfelt prayer for our beloved Philippines.
Looking at the lantern filled with names, drawings, dreams, and blessings made the experience feel deeply personal.
It was no longer just a tourist activity.
It had become a shared expression of hope.
The Moment We Let Go
Once we finished writing, one of the local coordinators guided us onto the railway tracks.
He expertly positioned us for photos, making sure every side of our lantern—and every wish we had carefully written—was captured on camera.
Only after documenting every angle did he light the fuel pad beneath the lantern.
We gently held it as warm air slowly filled its paper shell.
“Ready.”
With a simple nod, we released it together.
For a brief moment, it hovered just above our heads before gracefully floating upward.
Higher.
And higher still.
Soon it became a tiny speck against the gray sky until the clouds quietly embraced it from view.
Like everyone else watching their lanterns disappear, we stood there for a few seconds in silence.
There was something incredibly peaceful about watching your hopes drift toward heaven.
Exploring More of Shifen
After our lantern disappeared into the sky, we continued strolling along Shifen Old Street.
The bustling market offered countless little discoveries—from handmade crafts and quirky souvenirs to irresistible Taiwanese snacks that filled the air with mouthwatering aromas.
Eventually, we reached the famous suspension bridge at the far end of the street.
Visitors paused there to admire the river below, take photographs, and enjoy the peaceful scenery that surrounded the old mining town.
Although evening had not fully arrived, dark clouds had begun covering the sky.
It was nature’s gentle reminder that our visit was coming to an end.
Back to the Bright Lights of Taipei
We crossed back along the opposite side of the railway and made our way to the parking area near the Coal Mine Museum, where Peter patiently waited for us.
Before long, we were winding through Taiwan’s scenic roads once again, leaving the quiet mountain town behind.
As we entered Taipei, the city’s dazzling skyline greeted us. Neon lights illuminated the streets, replacing the peaceful charm of Shifen with the vibrant energy of Taiwan’s capital.
The contrast couldn’t have been more striking.
More Than Just a Tourist Attraction
Many people visit Shifen simply to check another destination off their Taiwan itinerary.
I left carrying something far more meaningful.
The experience reminded me that travel is not only about seeing beautiful places. Sometimes, it is about pausing long enough to reflect on what truly matters—our loved ones, our dreams, our faith, and our hopes for the future.
Long after the lantern disappeared into the evening sky, I couldn’t help but imagine it continuing its journey beyond the clouds.
Somewhere above the mountains of Taiwan, beneath the stars and beyond what our eyes could see, our wishes and prayers were finding their way to the One who hears them all.
For more of our photos, visit my Facebook page album.
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