Chenggong Fishing Harbor is the main fishing port on Taitung County's East Coast, known for large migratory species such as marlin and mahi-mahi, with a strong marlin run each October brought by the northeast monsoon. Fishing boats head out in the early morning and return in the afternoon to unload, and the harbor fish market offers a concrete place to observe the seafood trade and learn about East Coast fishing culture.
Chenggong Fishing Harbor lies along the Kuroshio Current, and the northeast monsoon each October brings a strong marlin run, making it one of Taiwan's best-known marlin auction markets. The traditional harpoon-fishing method was introduced from Okinawa during the Japanese colonial era and later refined by Taiwanese fishermen; the boats' distinctive harpoon platforms are mounted at the bow.
Highlights of Chenggong Fishing Harbor
Chenggong Fishing Harbor is located in Chenggong Village, Chenggong Township, and is the largest fishing port on the East Coast of Taitung County. Harpoon marlin fishing boats are moored in the harbor year-round, with fishermen standing on elevated platforms at the bow — a characteristic sight of Taiwan's traditional marlin fishing method. The marlin fishing peak season concentrates in autumn and winter (October to December), when catches are plentiful and trading at the harbor fish market is brisk.
Fresh seafood is available at the fish market, with marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna, and other species commonly on offer. Several seafood restaurants in the Chenggong town center area use freshly caught East Coast fish as their main ingredient. The Chenggong tourism fish market is busier on weekends and peak season holidays, offering a chance to experience the daily atmosphere of an East Coast fishing port — though buyers should confirm freshness before purchasing.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Time
- By car: Follow Highway 11 to Chenggong town center. The harbor is on the eastern side of the township — follow signs. Parking is available near the harbor.
- Public transport: Take an East Coast highway bus from Taitung City to the Chenggong stop, then walk to the harbor, approximately 10 minutes.
- During the marlin peak season (October–December), fishing boats return to port between approximately 1 and 3 p.m. — the best time to observe fishing operations.
Nearby Connections
- Sanxiantai is about 5 to 10 minutes from Chenggong Fishing Harbor by car and can be combined into a Chenggong Township half-day itinerary.
- Heading south on Highway 11 leads to Donghe Old Bridge, continuing the East Coast Highway southbound itinerary.
Source: Public information on Chenggong Fishing Harbor and East Coast fisheries documents. Photos to be replaced with Dio's own shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chenggong Fishing Harbor known for?
It is known for large migratory catches such as marlin and mahi-mahi, and is one of Taiwan's best-known marlin auction markets.
When is the marlin fishing peak season?
The peak season runs October to December, driven by the northeast monsoon.
What is harpoon marlin fishing?
A traditional method introduced from Okinawa during the Japanese colonial era and refined by Taiwanese fishermen, using a harpoon platform at the bow.
Sources
- 「旗」開得勝．海上「旗」跡 旗魚餐桌 - 台灣光華雜誌 — 鏢旗魚漁法沿革
- 成功漫遊－東部海岸國家風景區觀光資訊網 — 官方風景區資訊