A cute pearl-shaped child figure debuts as a new landmark on Jibei Island

 By MOOK Scenic Spots Wu Pin-xuan, compiled and reported

 
Penghu’s northern sea tourist destination, Jibei Island, not only draws visitors with its natural beauty but also serves as a popular spot for summer holidays in Penghu. The Sand Spit Bay is especially famous, stretching from Xishan Mountain southeastward to form a golden beach several kilometers long. It also boasts 102 stone weirs—the highest density in the world—so the island has a Stone Weir Cultural Museum and is known for its water activities. With sunshine, blue skies, and clear seas, it's a prime destination for summer water-based tourism.
 

 In the past, the island’s landmarks were mainly the wooden fish and the Eastern Dragon Horse public artworks, which had a stronger religious tone. Recently, the new tourism symbol of Jibei—officially unveiled—is the Ship-Hulled Shell, designed by well-known Penghu artist Wu Fei-da. Its creative concept draws on the shape of stone weir houses, symbols of love and good fortune, and the natural form of ship-hulled shells. It’s nicknamed the “Shell of Good Fortune,” hence simply called “Jibei.”
 

In addition to the Shell of Good Fortune, Jibei’s imagery also includes a pearl and a sea-kicking child. However, the Pearl Child has been noted for its somewhat eerie appearance, sparking online discussion. The creator, well-known Penghu artist Wu Fei-da, explained on Facebook that the pearl shell is depicted as having transformed into a human, hence the intentionally strange gaze to convey a sense of spirit, though the overall tone remains cute. Many netizens have praised the work for its creativity and incorporation of local elements.

 This summer vacation, when you visit Jibei Island in Penghu to enjoy the scenery, don’t forget to take a photo with these special mascots too!
 
 
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