Hou Liao San Ba An Fish Oven Introduction
Penghu is surrounded by the sea and boasts rich natural resources. During the Japanese colonial period, fishing processing techniques were introduced by the Japanese, turning fish that originally had low economic value into processed products distributed to Taiwan and abroad, leading to the prosperous development of the Penghu fishing industry. The "fish oven" thus plays an important role in this economic development. The year 1961 was the peak of traditional fishing in Penghu, and changes in resource environments, technological innovations, and market demand led to the proliferation of "fish ovens" alongside the thriving fishing industry, with fish ovens established along the coasts of fishing ports or in villages. The seasonal catch of stinky meat fish and anchovies became the primary sources of fish catch, with village women processing the catches in the fish ovens, first soaking and cleaning them in brine, then steaming them in round bamboo sieves before sun-drying them for export to Taiwan or Japan. After the 1970s, due to declining fishery resources, changing market demands, and population outflow, the traditional fish oven industry gradually declined, leading to the deterioration and abandonment of fish oven buildings. The lively scenes of old and young surrounding the fish ovens in the memories of the older generation faded along with the dilapidation of the fish ovens, becoming mere remnants of memory. In July 2017, with the joint efforts of the Baisha Township Office and the Community Development Association, the "Hou Liao San Ba Yan Fish Oven" was renovated and reopened to continue preserving and passing down the century-old fish oven history. The restoration of the fish oven not only allows older villagers to reminisce about the past but also helps descendants understand the lifestyles of early fishing community residents, carrying educational significance. Moreover, it is hoped to promote the tourism industry in the Baisha Township area by connecting and bringing more visitors to nearby attractions. The San Ba Yan Fish Oven located near the old wharf of Hou Liao in Baisha is adjacent to the hidden gem "Paradise Road." Visitors to Paradise Road should not forget to stop by and appreciate the traditional fish oven architecture. The San Ba Yan Fish Oven in Hou Liao not only has fish oven equipment but also creatively uses local floating balls and other recycled materials to create four figurines. Each figurine has a unique pose and role, vividly recreating the working conditions of traditional fish ovens. Beside the fish oven, the coral beach features a painted fishing boat. This fishing boat not only connects to the history of the fish oven but also, under the shining sunlight of Penghu, stands out with vibrant colors against the blue sky, white clouds, and sandy beach, making it one of the most beautiful sights in Penghu. [Recommended Stay Time] 0.5 hours
Colorful fishing boats beside the fish stove at Hualiao Sanbahan
Houliao Sanba'an Fish Stove
