Nanfang'ao Fishing Harbor is one of Taiwan's three major fishing ports, completed in 1923 during the Japanese colonial period. It is renowned nationwide for its mackerel catch — accounting for over 90 percent of Taiwan's total mackerel landings — earning it the nickname 'hometown of mackerel.' Fishing boats come and go constantly, and several seafood restaurants line the waterfront serving the freshest catch, while a hilltop lookout platform gives a panoramic view of the entire harbor.
Nanfang'ao Fishing Harbor was completed in 1923 during the Japanese colonial period and is one of Taiwan's three major fishing ports. Its mackerel catch accounts for over 90 percent of Taiwan's total mackerel landings, earning it the nickname 'hometown of mackerel'; the peak season runs roughly September to November. The harbor complex also includes a second fishing port (Neipi) built in 1955 and a third built in 1965.
Highlights of Nanfang'ao Fishing Harbor
Nanfang'ao is sheltered on three sides by hills and has a natural harbor; fishermen have settled here since the Qing dynasty, and the port was formally developed during the Japanese colonial period. The harbor is renowned for its offshore mackerel fishing. Every autumn (roughly September to November) marks the mackerel peak season, when large numbers of boats return to port and the auction market buzzes with activity, drawing many visitors to watch the fishing operations firsthand. The lookout platform above the harbor is about a 10–15-minute walk up, with views that take in the entire inner harbor and the Pacific Ocean beyond.
Most waterfront seafood restaurants are family-run operations. Mackerel dishes — salt-grilled or simmered in miso — are the must-order items; there is also a fresh-catch market where you can pick your own fish. During the autumn mackerel season, some restaurants offer seasonal set menus. Outside fishing season the harbor is quieter, but you can still watch boats moored and being repaired.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There
- By car: from Su'ao town center, head south about 3 km along Provincial Highway 9C to reach Nanfang'ao Fishing Harbor. Parking is available near the harbor.
- By public transit: take the TRA to Suao Station, then transfer to a taxi or local bus (select routes serve the area) — about 10 minutes.
- To watch the boat unloading, arrive from early to late morning. Harborside restaurants are busiest at lunchtime.
Nearby Connections
- Su'ao Cold Spring is about 4 km from Nanfang'ao — a natural half-day pairing: morning cold spring soak, midday seafood lunch at Nanfang'ao.
- The Suhua Highway scenic overlooks begin just south of Nanfang'ao, making it easy to continue south along the coast for afternoon sightseeing.
Source: on-site harbor information and local fishing industry records. Photos pending Dio's on-location shoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Nanfang'ao Fishing Harbor built?
The harbor was completed in 1923 during the Japanese colonial period, a major fishing infrastructure project for northern Taiwan at the time.
Why is Nanfang'ao called the 'hometown of mackerel'?
Its annual mackerel catch accounts for more than 90 percent of Taiwan's total, giving it this nickname.
When is the best time to see boats unloading their catch?
Autumn (roughly September to November) is mackerel peak season, when boat traffic and auction activity are at their busiest.
Sources
- 蘭陽博物館-032期-南方澳漁港的興修過往 — 建港年份1923年、三個漁港興建年份
- 蘇澳區漁會｜南方澳漁港｜鯖魚的故鄉 — 鯖魚漁獲量占全台九成以上