The Splendour of Han: Magnificent and Integrated – Special Lecture on Three Types of Han Dynasty Religion: Local Immortal Shrines, Grave-guarding Texts, and Zhengyi Tianshi Daoism
The Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre will host a special lecture as part of the 'Splendour of Han' exhibition, featuring Professor Lai Chi-tim. This session examines three significant aspects of Han Dynasty religious belief: local immortal shrines, grave-guarding texts, and the emergence of Zhengyi Tianshi Daoism. Admission is free, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- When
11 Jul 2026 15:00 - 17:00
- Location
Lecture Hall, Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre
Kowloon Tsim Sha Tsui Yau Tsim Mong
Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre, Kowloon Park, Haiphong Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Highlights
The special lecture for the exhibition "The Splendour of Han: Magnificent and Integrated" invites audiences to explore the complex and diverse religious belief systems of the Han Dynasty. We are honored to host Professor Lai Chi-tim, Director of the Centre for the Study of Daoist Culture at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, who will provide a scholarly analysis of Han social and spiritual life.
Program
This lecture focuses on three core pillars of Han religious belief:
- Local Immortal Shrines: An exploration of how local beliefs integrated with the concept of immortality, reflecting the Han people's yearning for eternal life.
- Grave-guarding Texts: An analysis of these unique funerary documents and what they reveal about Han perspectives on the afterlife and mortality.
- Zhengyi Tianshi Daoism: A study tracing the development of early organized Daoism and its impact on future religious structures.
Through Professor Lai's deep insights, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the spiritual depth of Han culture and how these beliefs shaped the social order and cultural landscape of the era.
Speaker
Professor Lai Chi-tim Professor Lai is the Director of the Centre for the Study of Daoist Culture and Executive Associate Director of the Institute of Chinese Studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. A renowned expert in the history of Daoism and Chinese religious culture, his expertise promises a fascinating and educational experience for all attendees.
Venue & Access
The lecture will be held at the Lecture Hall of the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre. Located within Kowloon Park in Tsim Sha Tsui, the venue is easily accessible via the Tsim Sha Tsui or Jordan MTR stations. We recommend using public transport.
Ticketing
This event is free of charge. No advance registration is required. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage you to arrive early to secure your seat.
