BY: ROSIE
JAN 12 2026
I travelled to Taiwan to experience the Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival — a night of chaos, sparks, and pure adrenaline that I’ll never forget.
Held in Yanshui, Tainan, this centuries-old festival launches thousands of fireworks directly into the crowds as part of a sacred ritual.
Fireworks aren’t watched from afar here — they’re fired at people. Smoke fills the streets, sparks hit skin, and adrenaline takes over.
Helmets, goggles, gloves, long sleeves and thick socks aren’t optional. Even fully covered, you still feel the burn.
At the heart of it all is Yanshui Tianhou Temple, where fireworks are lit to bring blessings and drive away bad luck.
Between explosions, the night market buzzes with street food, crowds, and colour — a calmer contrast to the chaos outside.
It’s loud, overwhelming and unforgettable. Strangers help each other, crowds cheer, and the energy is electric.