People here say that Tainan Kailong Temple (開隆宮) is the most well-known for staging the coming-of-age celebration.
Kailong Temple holds the ceremony of 'turning 16 years of age', celebrating the children's arrival at adulthood on the birthday of Qiniuma (七娘媽), the 7th day of the 7th lunar month every year.
Legend tells that Qiniuma is the Weaving Maid (織女), the 7th daughter of the Jade Emperor, and is also called 7-star mother. It is said that Qiniuma is the goddess to protect children under 16, and if the children grow up safely, parents often go to the temple to express thanks to the goddess when their children reach the age of 16.
The rituals in the coming-of-age celebration starts with incense burning, coin tossing and food sacrifices, for spirits as well as for ancestors. The 16 year olds then cross under the altar 3 times.
The young adults who have completed the rites then parade through streets of Tainan in traditional costumes on horseback.
The coming-of-age ritual is celebrated in Tainan at the age of 16 because centuries ago child workers were paid half the adult salary until the age of 16. When the children turned 16, parents would hold a feast for their employers, their family and friends to announce the good news. The ceremony signified the assumption of adult role in the family by sharing financial responsibility. Realizing the maturity process and coming of adult age, one is expected to build self-control, discipline, and becoming responsible for one’s behavior.
(Sumber artikel: Taipei Times)