The Tainan City Government held the traditional "Coming of Age at 16" ceremony, arranging for young people to take a boat trip along the Anping Canal, symbolising a farewell to childhood and an embrace of the future — a heartwarming local cultural event.

• The Tainan City Government held the "2026 Tainan City Coming of Age at 16 Ceremony" at the Kaitai Tianhou Temple in Anping, with around 400 young people taking part.
• This year's theme was "Setting Sail for Success," with the young people boarding pleasure boats in Anping to cruise the century-old canal, symbolising setting sail bravely with everyone's blessings.
• The event combined traditional rituals, archery and pitch-pot games, passing beneath the Bird Mother Palace altar, and serving tea to thank parents for their kindness, allowing the young people to appreciate the responsibilities that come with growing up.
• "Coming of Age at 16" is a folk custom unique to Tainan, originating from the belief that the Seven Star Mothers (Qiniangma) watch over children, a tradition the city government continues to preserve.

Outlook: This coming-of-age ceremony has become one of Tainan's signature annual cultural events, and it is expected to be held every year going forward, carrying on local faith and heritage.