Fed up with the disturbances: The Bayan Settlement in Jinshan to “close the village” starting this Saturday

Reported by Yu Jiayun / Taipei

Bayan Settlement, often regarded as a hidden gem in northern Taiwan and famed for its picturesque “water center” scenery, has not allowed unrestricted public access since April of this year. Instead, it has implemented a “group-in, group-out” policy for visitor management. However, due to financial disputes arising from entrance fees and the disturbances caused by large crowds, residents of Bayan Settlement today (9th) signed a petition and resolved to close the village starting this Saturday (12th).

▲ Bayan Settlement (Photo / Provided by New Taipei City Agriculture Bureau)

More than ten households in Bayan Settlement have signed a statement declaring that “the entire area of the settlement will be temporarily closed to the public.” Starting on the 12th, a blockade line will be set up at the entrance to the settlement to prohibit tourist entry.

Regarding the residents’ petition to close the village, although Bayan Settlement is located within Yangmingshan National Park, it is on privately owned land, so the Yangmingshan National Park Headquarters cannot intervene.