Phuket Vegetarian Festival2026

The Street Procession

The street procession is conducted on different days in Phuket by every shrine during the festival. This is the most spectacular event of the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, which became iconic of the festival as a whole. The procession offers an opportunity for householders and the general public along the streets to receive the blessings of the gods possessing the spirit mediums. The locals set up altars in front of their houses, decorated with Chinese embroidered table aprons (“TokUi” 桌圍), placing on them lit candles and incense sticks, flowers, fruit, sweets and tea.

The Ceremonial Bridge – Crossing Ritual

The main idea of devotees crossing the bridge is believed to cleanse them from impurities and misfortunes that may fall upon them. Once crossing the bridge, a red stamp of the Nine Emperor Gods’ seal (or imperial seal) will be stamped at the back of the devotees to signify that they are purified from sins and calamities that might happen to them.

Fire-Walking Ritual

“Fire overcomes impurity and repels evil influence. As men purify themselves with fire, they expiate transgressions and thus overcome yin.” The locals believe that only those who are cleansed will be free from being seriously burned.

The Farewell Ritual

The Nine Emperor Gods Festival culminates in the farewell ritual for the Jade Emperor and the Nine Emperor Gods on the evening of the ninth and last day, and comes to a close with sending off the Nine Emperor Gods or “KiuOng” at midnight back to the heaven. Tip: every street in Phuket city will be filled with people waiting to send the god, KiuOng, back to heaven. This ceremony is a must-see, especially around Thalang Road, Phuket Road, Surin Circle Clock Tower and the road leading to Saphan Hin.

Before You Take Part

Those observing the festival strictly dress in white, abstain from meat and animal products, avoid alcohol, and keep watch over their conduct throughout the nine days. By tradition, those in mourning, expectant mothers, and women during menstruation refrain from taking part in rituals inside the shrine.

Making Offerings & Wishes

On entering, remove your shoes before stepping up to the deities’ hall. Light incense and first pay respects at the outdoor urn dedicated to Heaven and Earth, then move inside to the principal deity, followed by the other deities in turn. When making a wish, settle your mind, state your name, where you live, and what you seek. Those wishing for guidance may draw a fortune stick and cast the moon blocks for confirmation. Common offerings are incense, flowers, fruit, sweets and tea — all of which must be vegetarian.

Etiquette

Conduct yourself quietly within the shrine grounds. Ask permission before photographing the deities or rituals inside. Always give way to spirit mediums and processions and keep a respectful distance — never cut across a procession. Photography is restricted during certain rituals; please follow the guidance of shrine staff.

Route 01

Old Town

5 shrines · 2.3 km · 34 min on foot

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Route 02

Khao Rang

5 shrines · 10.1 km · 25 min by car

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Route 03

Thalang

5 shrines · 15.6 km · 30 min by car

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