Houliao Sanba'an Fish Stove 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, which transformed fish with originally low economic value into commercially viable products distributed to Taiwan and abroad, driving the prosperity of the fishing industry in Penghu. The "fish kilns" became an important type of architecture in this economic development. The year 1961 marked the peak of traditional fishing in Penghu. Changes in resource environments, technological innovations, and market demands led to the proliferation of fish kiln buildings alongside the flourishing fishing industry, with every fishing port or village equipped with a fish kiln. The seasonal catches of stinky fish and anchovies became the primary sources of fishery products. Village women processed captured fish at the kilns by soaking them in brine, followed by steam cooking in round bamboo sieves and then sun-drying for export to Taiwan or Japan. After the 1970s, due to declining fishery resources, changing market demands, and population outflow, the traditional fish kiln industry gradually declined, leading to the neglect and deterioration of fish kiln buildings. The lively scenes of life around the fish kilns, cherished in the memories of the older generation, faded along with the kilns themselves. In July 2017, through the collaborative efforts of the Baisha Township office and the Community Development Association, the "Houliao Sanbayan Fish Kiln" was renovated and reopened. This revival aims to preserve and pass on the century-old history of fish kilns, not only allowing the older villagers to relive past times but also enabling future generations to understand the lifestyles of early fishing communities. This initiative carries significant educational value and aims to connect local tourism attractions, bringing more visitors to promote the tourism development of the Baisha Township area. Located next to the former Houliao old wharf, the Sanbayan fish kiln is near the secret spot known as "Paradise Road." Visitors to Paradise Road should not forget to admire the traditional fish kiln architecture along the way. The Sanbayan fish kiln features not only fish processing equipment but also creatively utilizes local floats and other recycled materials to create four dolls. Each doll takes on a unique pose and role, vividly recreating the scenes of traditional fish kiln work. Next to the fish kiln, a coral beach is home to a colorful fishing boat, which ties the history of the fish kilns together. The vibrantly painted fishing boat shines under the sunlight of Penghu, set against the blue sky, white clouds, and sandy beach, representing one of the most beautiful scenes in Penghu. [Suggested duration of visit] 0.5 hours
Colorful fishing boats beside the fish oven at Houliao Sanbaian.
Hou Liao San Ba An Fish Oven
