Hengda Harbor (Lover's Wharf) Introduction
Hsingta Harbor - The Hometown of Black Gold Hsingta Harbor, located next to Lover's Wharf, is renowned for its blackfish, famously referred to as "black gold." During the blackfish season around the winter solstice each year, blackfish roe, dried fish, fish maw, and blackfish stomach bring considerable economic benefits to Cijin District. Hsingta Harbor is not only the largest producer of blackfish roe in Taiwan but has also developed into a hub for fresh seafood due to its rich coastal fisheries and aquaculture. In recent years, with the Kaohsiung City Government's re-planning and expansion, the traditional fishing village has transformed into a modern fishing port that seamlessly integrates local characteristics with tourism and leisure, making it the largest and most modern fishing port in Taiwan. Hsingta Harbor is a coastal fishing port where small fishing boats head out to sea in the early hours and return around noon to unload and auction the catch, featuring fresh fish, squid, mullet, and more. Visitors can observe the wholesale unloading process and purchase fresh seafood to take home and enjoy. Hsingta Harbor Tourist Fish Market The Hsingta Harbor Tourist Fish Market originated as Hsingta Harbor and was formally established as a temporary vendor concentration area on December 11, 2015, with the approval of the Kaohsiung City Council. At dusk, when fishing boats return and transactions are completed, numerous fresh seafood vendors set up shop, offering a variety of "fresh catch" seafood, including various fresh fish, live shrimp, shellfish, and crabs, which are beloved by the people of Taiwan. The array of fragrant seafood snacks and cooked foods invites visitors to indulge, and local specialties like blackfish roe, grilled fish slices, dried flatfish, and fish skin make perfect souvenirs for travelers. After enjoying the Golden Coast and Lover's Wharf, one should visit the tourist fish market to delight in affordable delicacies and a unique shopping experience. For those wishing to shop, remember to search "Hsingta Harbor Tourist Fish Market" or "No. 88 Dafa Road, Cijin District, Kaohsiung City" on Google Maps. For further inquiries, you can contact the market management at 0963-563-779. Lover's Wharf and the Ocean Theater Lover's Wharf at Hsingta Harbor transforms the traditional fishing port image with its modern marine charm. The two striking white towers of the Ocean Theater are the main highlights, resembling large sailboats shining in the sunlight, while they glow in various colors under night lights, resembling pearls on the sea. Lover's Wharf offers a range of exciting water activities such as sailing and kayaking, providing water sports enthusiasts with a thrilling experience. The extensive beach area within the coastal recreation zone is perfect for wading and playing in the water. Visitors can purchase various freshly caught and cooked seafood at the adjacent tourist fish market, savor local seafood, and after a hearty meal, leisurely stroll along the seaside wooden walkway beside Hsingta Harbor with companions, or relax on the grass to soak in the twilight sun. As the evening glow shimmers on the sea's surface, the colorful lights at Lover's Wharf illuminate, reflecting the graceful peaks of the Ocean Theater onto the water. The beautiful heart-shaped installation at the Lovers’ Square creates an incredibly romantic atmosphere, making it a must-visit dating spot for couples and an excellent venue for large festive events. Cijin Coastal Park Located alongside Provincial Highway 17, Cijin Coastal Park spans about 5 hectares with a coastline of 900 meters featuring beautiful Casuarina and Terminalia trees. It includes well-equipped observation platforms and exercise equipment for visitors. The park connects Hsingta Harbor, Cijin Wetland, and Lover's Wharf, allowing people to cycle or walk to enjoy water activities and admire the vast coastal scenery, especially as the sun sets, creating a breathtaking view of golden reflections on the water, which brings immense joy and tranquility. Future Giant The Future Giant, a notable highlight during Mayday's concerts at Kaohsiung's World Games Stadium and Hong Kong's Hung Hom Station in 2014, is a large artistic installation that stands 3.5 meters tall, 6.2 meters long, and weighs 1 ton. After its previous engagements, the sculpture has found a new home at Lover's Wharf where it symbolizes stability, size, and kindness. Representing Mayday's three-year ambassadorship for Kaohsiung City, this giant now serves as a guardian in the sea breeze, preserving beautiful memories and happiness in love. Hsingta Marine Station Formerly a customs inspection facility, "Hsingta Marine Station" has been transformed by the Southern Coast Guard Administration. Visitors can enter the station through brightly painted walls and enjoy an exhibition space designed with the theme of black fish, featuring marine life made from ocean waste, which is highly eye-catching. Hsingta Marine Station is adjacent to Hsingta Harbor and near the tourist fish market, Lover's Wharf, Coastal Park, Hsingta Power Plant, Cijin Wetland, Cijin Temple, and the Kuo Chang-Shih Cultural Museum—various cultural and ecological sites. It serves as a place for marine environmental education, promoting ecological conservation and achieving an "edutainment" function. Services Offered: ❶ Basic Travel Consultation ❷ Visitor Rest Area ❸ Station Guided Tours ❹ Marine Policy Promotion ❺ Overview of Coast Guard Operations Address: No. 1 Dafa Road, Cijin District, Kaohsiung City Phone: 07-6987206
