ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Lam Tsuen wishing trees

Have you ever heard of wishing trees? In the village of Lam Tsuen in Hong Kong, there are special trees where people go to make wishes. These trees are famous because they are said to have special powers that can make your wishes come true!

Now, the Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees are not just any ordinary trees. They are actually two banyan trees that are over 700 years old! Banyan trees are special because their branches grow downwards towards the ground, which makes them look like they have lots of roots.

When people go to these trees to make a wish, they first write their wishes on a piece of paper or an orange. Then, they tie the paper or orange onto a string and throw it up into the branches of the tree. The higher the paper or orange goes up into the tree, the better luck you will have with your wish coming true!

People go to these trees for all sorts of different wishes. Some people wish for good luck in love, while others wish for good grades in school. Some people even wish for good health for themselves or their loved ones.

Because the Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees are so popular, they have become a big tourist attraction. There is a big festival every year during Chinese New Year where people come from all over to make their wishes and hang their papers and oranges in the trees.

So, next time you're in Hong Kong, make sure to visit the Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees and make a wish of your own!