Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Wu Pin-xuan, compiled and reported
Xishu is located in the coastal fringe area on the outskirts of Tainan City, characterized by traditional historical settlements and folk culture. It is close to the Golden Coast, famous for its beautiful sunsets, and the Wanli commercial district, and is part of Tainan’s early old-style coastal fishing villages. In recent years, the Xishu community has launched a local small market — the Xishi Market — promoting leisure sports and street artist markets with the distinctive features of the seaside environment, gathering artistic talents to create a new coastal settlement culture, thereby allowing more people to learn about this simple little fishing village.
The fish-themed mural wall, where fish symbolize the fishing village spirit of Xishu. (Photo / Xishu Art Village)
It is said that the adorable name “Xishu” (which can be interpreted as “Joy Tree”) came about because during local festivals or celebrations, people often used the |kendingyu (a type of plant, also known as xipingqi), which symbolizes joy and celebration, hence the implication of happiness and joy. There are also many kendingyu plants in the area, which is why it is also known as the “kendingyu village.”
“Is anybody peeking at me?” This mural art piece uses humor to evoke past life scenes. (Photo / Xishu Art Village)
This historic old settlement, which dates back about 300 years, has gradually been forgotten on the edge of the city. Although the settlement has declined, cats still jump from rooftop to rooftop across every household — and this gave rise to the creative concept.
The rooftops of the houses are covered with the installation art “Excuse-Me Cats.” (Photo / shinysua)
One of the most distinctive cultural and creative products in the Xishu community is the Grandma’s Artistic Little Fish Buns, so realistic that you feel like you’ve come to a fish market to pick out fresh seafood. With all kinds of fish designs, these are unique goods you can only find here.
From the past small fishing village to a creative market selling fish-shaped bags, it's another form of cultural heritage. (Photo / Xishu Art Village)
This weekend, come to Xishu to enjoy the breeze and the sea, then step into the community to “explore art, see cultural creations, and taste agricultural delicacies,” experiencing the new Kunxi Bay coastal settlement culture.
[Info]
Address: Lane 340, Xishu Road, South District, Tainan City
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