Houliao Sanbalian Fish Oven Introduction
Penghu is surrounded by the sea and boasts rich natural resources. During the Japanese colonial period, techniques for processing fish were introduced by the Japanese, allowing previously low-value fish catches to be processed and distributed to Taiwan and abroad, leading to the flourishing development of the fishing industry in Penghu. The "fish oven" architecture holds an important place in this economic development. The year 1961 marked the peak of traditional fishing in Penghu. Changes in resources and environmental conditions, technological innovations, and market demand led to the proliferation of "fish ovens" as fishing industries thrived. Each fishing port and village had its own fish oven. The seasonal catch of smelly fish and anchovies was the main source of fish products, which the village women processed in the fish ovens. They soaked and cleaned the catch in brine, then steamed it in circular bamboo sieves before sun-drying it for export to Taiwan or Japan. After the 1970s, due to dwindling fish resources, changing market demands, and population outflow, the traditional fish oven industry gradually declined, leading to the deterioration and neglect of fish oven buildings. In the memories of the older generation in Penghu, the lively scenes of people of all ages surrounding the fish ovens have faded along with the ruins of the ovens, leaving only traces in their memories. In July 2017, with the joint efforts of the Baisha Township Office and the Community Development Association, the "Houliao Sanbayan Fish Oven" was renovated and reopened. This revival aims to preserve and transmit the century-old history of fish ovens. The reappearance of the fish oven not only allows the older villagers to reminisce about the past but also helps future generations understand the lifestyles of residents in early fishing societies, providing educational significance. It is hoped that it will also promote and connect surrounding tourist attractions, bringing more visitors to enhance the development of tourism in Baisha Township. The Sanbayan Fish Oven, located near the old fishing port of Houliao in Baisha, is adjacent to the secret spot "Paradise Road." When visiting Paradise Road, don't forget to appreciate the traditional fish oven architecture. The Sanbayan Fish Oven not only comes equipped with fish oven facilities but also creatively uses local floating balls and other recycled materials to create four figurines. These figures, each with different postures and functions, vividly recreate the traditional workings of the fish ovens. Next to the fish oven, a coral sandy beach features a painted fishing boat. The boat not only connects to the history of the fish oven but also, bathed in the bright sunlight of Penghu against a backdrop of blue skies and white clouds, highlights one of the most beautiful scenes in Penghu. 【Recommended Duration of Stay】0.5 hours
Colorful fishing boats by the fish stove at Houliao Sanba'an.
Houliao Sanba'an Fish Stove
