The Fluorescent at Night on the Northern Coast - Jinshan Sulfuric Fire Fishing

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At night, near the coast of Jinshan District, the only on the dark sea surface is the 4000-watt white fish-attracting lights of a neritic squid-catching boat in the distance, the sound of waves, and the sporadic traffic on Provincial Highway 2. Suddenly, a "boom!" sounded, and the flashing torches illuminated the silent sea surface, and the phototaxis small fishes jumped out of the sea one after another. This unique scenery limited to summer comes from the traditional fishing method unique to Jinshan Huanggang Fishing Harbor - "Jinshan sulfuric fire fishing," the most dazzling conventional fishing method in Taiwan.

The sulfuric fire fishing boat is also commonly known locally as the "Hia-A-Tsun." Fishing boats set sail at night, and the captain stands at the ship's bow with a torch to attract phototactic fish species, such as pilchard, to jump out of the water, then catches them with a skimming net. It has been a traditional fishing method in Jinshan for a hundred years and was registered as a cultural asset of New Taipei City in 2015. During its heyday, more than 40 sulfur fire fishing boats were operating in the waters off the northern coast. However, in 2016, the T.S. Lines cargo ship ran aground in Shimen, causing an ecological disaster on the north coast due to the oil spill. The June 2017 flood caused seawater desalination in Jinshan, severely damaging the area's marine ecology for the second time and causing schools of pilchard to leave Jinshan. At one point, only one remaining ship, the Fuji 268, was still in operation.

Fortunately, after several years of persistence, some mud carp have returned to the Jinshan coast in the past two years. Also, fishers have transformed the sulfuric fire fishing boat into a tourist experience activity. During the Sulfuric Fire Fishing season, which lasts from May to September every year, they combine fishing village tours with sea fishing to preserve the beauty of traditional fishing methods.

The sulfuric fire fishing boat uses a flat-bottomed and flat-headed boat. It has a low speed but has the characteristics of fast turning and high maneuverability. 4-8 people operate the sulfuric fire fishing boat, including the captain and the fire crews. They use a fish finder on the bow to search for fish. The fire crews then use searchlights to identify the fish species. After ation, they use a torch to attract the light, attracting pilchard, Japanese anchovy, and other fish to jump out of the water. Also called Tainan sardine, pilchard is used as fish bait or grouper feed after processing. When the fishing conditions are good, a sulfuric fire fishing boat can catch more than 800 baskets of pilchard.

The earliest sulfuric fire fishing boat used bamboo torches. After introducing calcium carbide during Japan's rule, fishers changed the ignition system to calcium carbide. Fishers poured water into the calcium carbide barrel to produce acetylene gas and through the filter cylinder to ignite the torch. The ignition produced a "boom" sound, which is the origin of the name of the sulfuric fire fishing boat today.

Take a yacht out of Huanggang Fishing Port and enjoy one of Jinshan's eight scenic spots, "Bamboo Peak Mist," while tasting rice noodles with neritic squid. From the sea, enjoy the beautiful coastline of Jinshan and watch the dazzling Jinshan sulfuric fire fishing boat up close after nightfall.

The yacht sails out of Huanggang Fishing Port, and what comes into view is the Jinshan Cape deep into the sea and the most famous landmark of Jinshan - the Twin Candlestick Islets. Besides, overlook the Yehliu Scenic Area and enjoy the scenery of the Jinshan coastline. While waiting for the sulfuric fire fishing boat, pick up a fishing rod and experience sea fishing fun.

In the waters between Tiaoshi Coast and Yehliu, the sulfuric fire fishing boat used fish finders and searchlights for schools of pilchard at night. The yacht began to turn off the lights. After turning off the lights so as not to affect the sulfuric fire fishing boat's search for schools of fish, the yachts followed the Fuji 268 sulfuric fire fishing boat, everyone in the yacht holding their breath and waiting for the moment when the school of fish jumped out of the water. "Bang!" the gorgeous torches ignited on the sea, illuminating the dark sea of Jinshan. This unique view of the world is undoubtedly a beautiful visual feast.

"Yes, here comes fish!" Stimulated by the flames, the school of pilchard jumped out of the water, flashing like fireflies on the sea. The crew members skillfully caught the pilchard with the skimming net, and the passengers on the yacht celebrated with thunderous applause.

The fire crew waved his hand handsomely to greet the crowd. The flashing torch in his hand is not only a tool for fishing but also carries a sense of mission to continue the tradition and pass on the unique traditional fishing method of Jinshan.

Educational and Entertaining Journey for Parents and Children! Colored Slides and the World of Dinosaur are Waiting for You to Explore.

It's the breaking news for dads and moms. After the Circular Line is open to the public, it's more convenient for parents and children to go on an outing. About popular attractions ideal for parents and children, you should read the information here! "Banqiao 435 Art Zone" has integrated art with life; there are a large lawn and a white sand area in the outdoor field suitable for parents and children; in the art zone, the exhibitions, the Taiwan Toy Museum, and the Wetland Story House are good for educational and entertainment experiences; at noon, parents and children can have lunch at the "Liu Biju Chaozhou Casserole Porridge"; put the rice into the casserole, and boil and simmer the rice with broth, the broth tastes mellow and has abundant ingredients; eating porridge is the best way to warm up on the days when it's getting colder. After lunch, parents can carry on the journey with their children. The signature in Zhonghe, "Yuanshan Park", has a vast area that is facilitated with the inclusive playground equipment for everyone; especially the super-long colorful slides, adults and kids will spend the day to their heart's content. And, the "Dinosaur Park" under the Huazhong Bridge, there're numerous dinosaur art installations as well as 3D paintings; the fans of dinosaur should never miss the place. At night, it's suggested to visit the most popular place of the local, "Lehua Night Market", which is packed with a lot of best-selling snacks and delicacies as well as cloth and shoe shops, a very satisfying destination for shopping and food.Banqiao 435 Art ZoneBanqiao 435 Art Zone is a public space where arts and life are intimately woven together; it is divided into two major themes: Family-Friendly Arts Fantasy Land and Artists’ Dream Base. There are 7 exhibition halls in the Art Zone, and a series of classes and exhibitions are also designed to offer entertaining and educational experiences for tourists and families. The “Wetland Story House” offers exhibitions and detailed information on wetland ecosystem, providing a comprehensive experience-learning environment. Taiwan Toy Museum, on the other hand, displays nearly three thousand pieces of rarely seen toys from past to present, from Taiwan to around the world, as well as several hundreds of traditional kid toys, educational games, and a temple festival game area; in addition to experiencing with your own hands and playing all the educational games, there are also many kinds of outdoor toys and games. If you are interested in going to exhibitions, there are now currently several dozens of artists stationed in the Art Zone, who come from diverse backgrounds including performing art, contemporary visual art, three-dimensional sculpture, designing, and music.info.Location and Address: No. 435, Zhongzhen Rd., Banqiao District, New Taipei CityContact Phone Number: 886-2-29690366Opening Hours: 09:00~17:00 Monday through Friday; 09:00~18:00 Saturday and Sunday; Art Zone Closing Times: First Monday of every month (but will be open on a public holiday).The traffic information from the Banqiao MRT Station to the Banqiao 435 Art ZoneAt the Banqiao MRT Station, take Bus No. 310, 307, 810, 857, 786 and get off at "Banqiao Junior High School, Banqiao 435 Art Zone".Banqiao 435 Art Zone's informationLiu Biju Chaozhou Casserole PorridgeThere're many different methods to cook porridge; Guangdong porridge and Taiwanese salty congee are the common cuisines for general customers. In recent years, the casserole porridge becomes popular in Banqiao due to the use of Taitung Guanshan Emperor Rice as the main ingredient; particularly, not until the guests make an order, the rice won't be put into the casserole. The rice is cooked with sea tangle broth and the nut sauce, which is a paste made of ground cashew nuts, pine nuts, peanuts, etc.; as a result, the broth tastes an extraordinary mellow and refreshing flavor, and it's strongly recommended by the gourmands who love porridge.info.Location and Address: No. 3, Mingquan Rd., Banqiao Dist., New Taipei CityContact Phone Number: 886-2-29528813Opening Hours: Monday ~ Thursday 11:30-14:00, 17:30-22:40/ Friday 11:30-14:00, 17:30-23:10/ Saturday and Sunday 11:30-14:00, 17:00-23:10The traffic information from the Banqiao 435 Art Zone to the Liu Biju Chaozhou Casserole PorridgeTake the Bus No. 310, 307, 810, 857, 786 and get off at Banqiao. Walk toward Xinzhan Road for about 8 minutes.Liu Biju Chaozhou Casserole Porridge's informationYuanshan ParkIt doesn't take a trip abroad to find featured parks. In New Taipei City, there are numerous featured parks. Located in Zhonghe, Yuanshan Park is a kid's wonderland and playground; it's a must-go destination for mom and dad to come with their kids! About an area of 3 hectares, the big park is facilitated with the inclusive playground equipment, the PU floor is safe protection. Built along the terrain, the tunnel net and climbing wall are the place to train kid's hand-foot coordination; besides the general type swings, there are bird's nest swings and diaper swings available for kids in different ages to enjoy the fun going up and down; the giant sandpit with a vine-shaped hand-foot bathing basin aside, it's convenient to wash the hands and feet after playing in the sand. The biggest highlight is absolutely the colorful terrazzo slide with a super-long length! Whoosh~~ a sort of speedy sliding enjoyment. Next to it, the grass slop is the best for exciting skating; people should remember to bring the skateboards.info.Location and Address: Ln. 455, Yuanshan Rd., Zhonghe Dist., New Taipei CityContact Phone Number: 886-2-29603456 (Public Works Department, New Taipei City Government)Opening Hours: It's open 24 hours a day.The traffic information from the Liu Biju Chaozhou Casserole Porridge to the Yuanshan ParkTake the Circular Line and get off at the Zhongyuan Station. It takes a 15-minute walk to reach the destination.Yuanshan Park's informationDinosaur ParkUnder the Huazhong Bridge, there's a large Dinosaur Park; since the Huazhong Bridge 3D paintings were launched in 2014, Taiwan's only one Dinosaur Park next to Riverside Bike Path has been planned. It's a place of amazing art installations for taking amazing photos, including little tyrannosaurus, triceratops, little stegosaurus, dinosaur egg, and a hanging pterosaur overlooking the area. (The photos are provided by the Water Resources Department, New Taipei City Government)info.Location and Address: Under the Huazhong Bridge, Zhonghe Dist., New Taipei CityContact Phone Number: 886-2-22482688 (Zhonghe District Office)Opening Hours: It's open all year round.The traffic information from the Yuanshan Park to the Dinosaur ParkTake the Circular Line and get off at the Qiaohe MRT Station. It takes about a 5-minute walk.Dinosaur Park's informationLehua Night MarketWhen evening creeps in and the street lights go on, the Lehua Night Market turns Yonghe into a city of the night. Foods from all over the world are gathered here, from Taiwanese oyster pancakes and fried chicken to Hong Kong curry fish balls, Japanese oden, and Thai papaya salad. Visitors cannot help but eat as they stroll through the market. One of the oldest stands is a place called Hsuehua Shaved Ice. It serves a meticulously prepared dessert with simple but hearty toppings.info.Location and Address: Yongping Road, Yonghe District, New Taipei City (Near the metro's Yongan Market Station)Contact Phone Number: 886-2-29282828Opening Hours: 17:00-01:00The traffic information from the Dinosaur Park to the Lehua Night MarketTake the Circular Line and get off at the Jing'an MRT Station. Transfer to Zhonghe-Xinlu Line and get off at the Dingxi MRT Station. Walk along Yonghe Road for about 10 minutes.Lehua Night Market's informationReturn Trip Traffic InformationWalk along Yonghe Road to reach the Dingxi MRT Station, and transfer to either MRT Line that reaches your home.Circular Line MAP

A Culinary Journey to the Night Markets! From Morning until Night, eating Chinese and Western Food Makes You Happy

-->Sometimes, delicacies link good travel memories! The traffic becomes more convenient after the operation of the Circular Line has started. Following the steps of gourmands, it's suggested to take a night market journey that satisfies your body and mind. The journey starts from the "World Soy Milk King;" the burnt-flavored soymilk cooked by using a traditional method goes well with hot egg pancake rolls, Shaobing (a layered flatbread), radish cake, etc., abundant Chinese-style breakfast starts a wonderful day. The so-called No.4 Park, which is known as the "823 Memorial Park" is the urban oasis; people can stroll or walk a dog leisurely; when feeling tired, people can read a book at the National Taiwan Library; at noon, the shop is filled with a warm aroma from the so-called "Dlcservice Cafe", which is located in the small lane near the Jingan MRT Station, offers mellow and aromatic coffee and Japanese-style meal boxes. In the evening, people can take a walk in the "Banqiao Station." On the year-end, the station is transformed into a dazzling New Taipei City Christmas Wonderland as there are not only extremely fantastic lighting decorations available for taking good photos but also a marketplace and series of activities. It's a must-go destination! At last, the journey comes to a perfect ending at the Nanya Night Market, which is the food paradise in Banqiao; the snacks, such as sesame oil chicken, stinky tofu, stewed pork ribs with medicinal herbs, etc. are available from the start until the end of the night market, super satisfying and enjoyable!World Soy Milk King--> Yonghe-made soy milk is known throughout the isles of Taiwan, with World Soy Milk King has the leading business plan and the mostfame.World Soy Milk King is open 24 hours a day, offering Chinese-style breakfast throughout Taiwan with a twist. It can be said that World Soy Milk King is responsible for mobilizing Taiwanese to get three square meals a day, and convincing Taiwanese that soy milk and oil sticks is not just for breakfast. In fact, breakfast has been expanded to mean north-China noodles, and includes Taiwanese-style and Cantonese favorites, making World Soy Milk a sanctuary of good eats.info.Location and Address: No. 284 Yonghe Road Section 2, Yonghe City, Taipei CountyContact Phone Number: 886-2-89270000Opening Hours: 24HThe traffic information from the Dingxi MRT Station to the World Soy Milk KingGet off at the Dingxi MRT Station. Go along Yonghe Road, and it takes about a 3-minute walk.823 Memorial Park--> Formerly called No. 4 Park, the name of this expanse of green changed to 823 Memorial Park after a monument was erected in it to commemorate victory in the Second Taiwan Strait Crisis, which had begun with the 823 Artillery Bombardment. The park is located at the Zhonghe-Yonghe border and at 10 hectares is the largest park in either district. The National Taiwan Library is here, as is a spacious green area and forest path, plus basketball courts and playgrounds. Local residents come to exercise, whether it is walking or taking their dog for a stroll, and to enjoy a rare expanse of green in this dense urban zone.info.Location and Address: No. 20, Lane 347, Anle Road, Zhonghe District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 235 (Between Zhongan Street and Anping Road)Contact Phone Number: 886-2-22482688Opening Hours: Open all year roundThe traffic information from the World Soy Milk King to the 823 Memorial ParkTake the MRT Zhonghe-Xinlu Line and get off at the Yong'an Market MRT Station. It takes about a 3-minute walk to reach the destination.823 Memorial Park's informationThe Dlcservice Cafe--> Located close to the Jing'an MRT Station, the "Dlcservice cafe," which has a country-style decoration at the gate. Once you open the wooden door, the interior decoration gives people a very relaxing feel. There're small objects hanging on the walls, such as postcards and leather accessories. Exactly, it sells Japanese groceries. The decoration setting and the menu are usually changed every half a year. Every place in the shop has its signature, people can feel the owner's considerate design in the different corners. The shop provides coffee and food, including pancakes, homemade yogurt, light meals and lunch boxes. You don't see anything wrong, the Japanese-style meal boxes are the same as the ones in the Japanese dramas. The food arrangement makes people want to take more photos, and the abundant contents taste very delicious! Having lunch or an afternoon tea here is a warm and comfortable enjoyment as if you're at home.Photos are provided by the Dlcservice Cafeinfo.Location and Address: No.6, Ln. 167, Jing'an Road, Zhonghe Dist., New Taipei CityContact Phone Number: 886-2-89433173Opening Hours: 12:00~21:00 (It closes on Mondays)The traffic information from the 823 Memorial Park to the Dlcservice CafeTake the MRT Zhonghe-Xinlu Line and get off at the Jing'an MRT Station. It takes about a 3-minute walk.The Dlcservice Cafe's informationBanqiao Railway Station--> The peripheral area of Banqiao Station is a new shopping area in the city and its most prosperous business quarter. In addition to Taiwan Railway Station, Taipei Metro Station and bus stops, Banqiao Station has other public facilities, including a big shopping mall, food court and library, which have turned the area into a new commercial center. New Taipei City Hall is five minutes away on foot. Visitors can participate in events held on the big square of the station and enjoy the view in the 32-floor observatory free of charge. These features make Banqiao comparable with first-class cities in the world.info.Location and Address: No.7, Sec. 2, Xianmin Blvd., Banqiao Dist., New Taipei City, Taiwan 220Contact Phone Number: 886-2-89691036Opening Hours: 06：00~24：00The traffic information from the Dlcservice Cafe to the Banqiao Railway StationAt the Jing'an MRT Station, transfer to the Circular Line and get off at Banqiao Station, which is the destination.Banqiao Railway Station's informationNanya Night Market--> As the street food paradise of Banqiao people, “Nanya Night Market” is located on “Nanya East Road”. Besides street foods, there are many fashion vendors and game stands. From the beginning to the end of the night market, there are many famous food stores you should never miss. From steamed pork buns (xiaolongbao), sesame oil chicken soup, stinky tofu, and small sausage in large sausage, after eating across the market, you will be full to the throat.info.Location and Address: Nanya E. Rd., Banqiao Dist., New Taipei City, Taiwan 220Contact Phone Number: 886-2-29686911Opening Hours: 17:00-02:00The traffic information from the Banqiao Station to the Nanya Night MarketStart from the Banqiao Station, walk along the Xianmin Boulevard. It takes about a 20-minute walk to reach the destination; or, take the MRT and get off at the Fuzhong Station, then, it takes about an 8-minute walk.Nanya Night Market's informationReturn Trip Traffic InformationWalk to the Fuzhong MRT Station, and transfer to either MRT Line that reaches your home.Circular Line MAP