Shanghai, China / Yu Gardens / April 2007.Lantern hanging from a building in Yu Gardens. Chinese culture is rich in symbolism that is still observed in contemporary culture. Lanterns symbolize signposts for guests and for the souls of those who have died. Feast of Lanterns is a major holiday that takes place on the 15th day of the 1st Chinese month. Lanterns usher out the Chinese New Year festivities and show the souls of the ancestors the way back to the world beyond. .© Ellen B. Senisi