Taiwan's annual ghost festival is being held to mark the gates of hell being opened and the dead returning to visit their relatives.

Donning scary costumes, revellers took part in a ghost parade, before burning water lanterns to supposedly appease the spirits.

"It's a good idea to join this event with costumed dress. We hold this carnival devoutly which allows us to enjoy this special day with ghosts, and they will bless us," said festival-goer, Hu Ming-Hwa.