Several of Taiwan’s elementary schools are located next to public cemeteries. Although that might seem unusual to some, local people, teachers and students tend to say that it’s no big deal. They don’t let superstitions impact how they use the school. In fact, many say that the presence of their ancestors’ graves gives them a sense of protection. Passing by the graves is just a normal part of daily life. Let’s head to Pingtung County to find out more.
Zaixing Elementary in Ligang has 70 years of history. But even before it was built, the public cemetery stood on its spot opposite.
Pao Cheng-nan
Zaixing Elementary alumnus
My grandmother is buried there. I don’t have many memories of her, but at least I know that family’s just next door.
Lin Ching-sheng
Zaixing Elementary alumnus
There’d be suona playing next door. And we’d hear it, one way or another.
The 90-plus staff and students of the school are used to the unusual setup. Few taboos are observed, and they hold school assemblies and games just as usual, on the grounds right opposite the cemetery.
Zaixing Elementary student
I’m used to it. I’ve been here three years.
Li Ping-mu
Zaixing Elementary principal
All their ancestors lived around here. So they’re used to it. As the principal here for several years, I also feel like it’s just a very normal situation. Some family members will tell the kids, “Our ancestors live opposite and they’re protecting us.”
Everyone seems to see the graves as protecting children as they go about their studies, or as spirits that will guard them as they grow up. And Zaixing Elementary is not the only such school in Taiwan.
Liao Li-hua
Pingtung County Department of Education
For example, Dexie Elementary and Daluguan Elementary are also near cemeteries. And these cemeteries can offer life lessons in the education and upbringing of these children. They’re not a shadow on the kids’ lives, but an extremely positive form of education.
However, if current trends in funeral and burial practices continue, it’s very possible that these cemeteries will be converted into parks or green spaces. It could be that the cemeteries accompanying these schools will soon become part of history.
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