Haunted Beliefs: Unveiling Hong Kong’s Ghost Superstitions – A Halloween Special!

Haunted Beliefs: Unveiling Hong Kong’s Ghost Superstitions – A Halloween Special!

Hong Kong is a city rich in history, culture, and, notably, superstitions—especially those related to ghosts. These beliefs are deeply intertwined with the territory’s past, marked by tragedies such as epidemics, World War II, landslides, and rare but notorious crime stories. Most residents are not particularly fearful of these spirits, since they follow certain rules and customs that help maintain harmony and respect for the supernatural.

A Glimpse into the Past

The history of Hong Kong is filled with dark chapters that have contributed to its ghostly lore. The suffering from past epidemics, the scars of World War II, and tragic incidents have all left their marks, creating a backdrop for countless ghost stories. These tales serve as reminders of the territory’s turbulent past and help explain the cultural significance of ghosts in everyday life. Here are a few stories among many…

Notable Ghost Stories

1. Murray House, Central

Murray House, a colonial-era building originally constructed in 1844, is infamous for its haunted past. During World War II, it served as a Japanese military headquarters and prison, where many suffered. The building is believed to have housed the spirits of those who endured torment, leading to numerous reports of strange occurrences, such as disembodied voices and cold drafts. To cleanse the space of its negative energy, the Hong Kong government had to conduct exorcisms on two occasions. Murray House was eventually relocated to Stanley, leaving behind its ghostly reputation in Central.

2. The Bride’s Pool Legend

Another popular ghost story revolves around the Bride’s Pool in the New Territories. According to local legend, a bride who was on her way to her wedding met with a tragic accident and drowned in the pool. It is said that her spirit now haunts the area, and visitors claim to hear her cries. People often visit the site to pay their respects, leaving offerings in hopes of appeasing her spirit.

3. Tat Tak School, Ping Shan

The Tat Tak School in Ping Shan, a now-closed village school, is steeped in chilling lore. Rumor has it that the schoolmistress tragically took her own life in the girls’ toilet, hanging herself while dressed in red. This act left behind a haunting presence, as her spirit is said to still wander the grounds in a red dress. The village itself has a long history of tragedy, having resisted colonial eviction attempts and faced the horrors of World War II. Adding to the eeriness, mass graves are rumored to be hidden in the hills surrounding the school, contributing to the site’s somber atmosphere. Today, the abandoned and rusty school remains locked, shrouded in an unsettling stillness that intrigues and chills visitors alike.

The Hungry Ghost Festival

One of the most significant cultural events related to ghost superstition is the Hungry Ghost Festival, celebrated in the seventh month of the lunar calendar. This festival is dedicated to appeasing restless spirits, during which families perform rituals, offer food, and burn incense to honor their deceased ancestors.

Dos and Don’ts during the festival include

Dos:

• Prepare food offerings for the spirits.
• Light incense and joss paper to pay respects to the dead.
• Participate in community celebrations, such as street fairs and performances.

Don’ts:

• Avoid swimming, as it is believed that spirits may drag you underwater.
• Do not provoke or speak ill of ghosts, as this may anger them.
• Refrain from leaving food uncovered, as it may attract wandering spirits.

Ghost Tours in Hong Kong

To explore the rich tapestry of ghost stories and superstitions, Hong Kong A La Carte has crafted a dedicated ghost tour that takes participants through some of the city’s most intriguing locations, from Sai Ying Pun to Wanchai. This tour can be organized all year-round, with increased popularity during Halloween. Conducted at night, it offers an immersive experience, allowing participants to dive deep into the haunting tales that define the city’s cultural landscape.

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