October is a bountiful month for seafood — head to New Taipei City to feast on crabs and abalones

By Chi Bing-hui / Compiled and reported

October is a season of rich fishing yields, and New Taipei City boasts a coastline stretching 126 kilometers. The city is home to five major district fishermen's associations — including those in Tamsui, Jinshan, Wanli, Ruifang, and Gongliao — and 30 fishing harbors, the most in Taiwan. Starting this October, it will host a series of events such as the Wanli Crab Festival, Gongliao Abalone Exhibition, Tamsui Sardine Festival, and Ruifang Squid Festival, inviting everyone to enjoy fresh seafood and scenic beauty in New Taipei City!

New Taipei City Mayor Eric Chu stated that the city’s fishing harbors are well-equipped. For example, Guhou Fishing Port in Wanli District was once voted the most beautiful fishing port along Taiwan’s coastline, but it lacks vibrancy and needs further enhancement. Meanwhile, the well-known Fugui Fishing Port has built a direct seafood sales center, with hopes that the center and the tendering of harbor restaurants will boost tourism and the fishing industry.

Agriculture Bureau Director Liao Rong-ching added that Guhou Fishing Port is currently being beautified through painting projects. Designs have drawn inspiration from painted fishing harbors in San Francisco and Hawaii, while incorporating local characteristics. Preliminary improvements are expected to be completed by the end of the year. As for the Fugui Fishing Port Sales Center tender, plans are underway to lower the franchise fee, with the aim of awarding the bid in September and opening to the public by next Lunar New Year.