Wise Hit: Episode 4 'THE BULL'
Temple fairs, held at various ancient temples in North China, are a kind of carnival that integrates religious worship, entertainment and commerce. During the fair, the public prays for happiness and peace in the New Year. In February last year, the first Guangfu Temple Fair was successfully introduced to the South in Guangzhou city, offering local citizens a wonderful chance to experience Cantonese folk art, cultural heritage handcraft-making, and delicious regional street food. Held from February 6 to 12 this year, the second Guangfu Temple Fair attracted approximately over five million visitors to come. Over seven days, the fair featured a string of events including parades, performances and nostalgic games.
Following tradition, the fair was held mainly at the Cheng Huang Temple near Beijing Road, with several other activities held at Fuxue Xi Jie nearby and Yuexiu Park. Cheng Huang (城隍), or city god, refers to the local protectors that have been deified over time. Guangzhou's Cheng Huang Temple was established in 1370 during the early Ming Dynasty. However, for some reasons it was once abandoned and unknown to the public for decades. Thanks to the Asian Games in 2010, the temple was renovated all over and regained public respect and worship.
