Nanfang'ao Fishing Harbor | Yilan Attraction

Nanfang'ao is one of Taiwan's most important coastal fishing bases, known throughout the country for its mackerel (locally called huafei) catch. Fishing boats come and go constantly, and several seafood restaurants line the waterfront serving the freshest catch. A hilltop lookout platform gives you a panoramic view of the entire harbor — making this a tangible window into Taiwan's fishing culture.

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

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Autumn Mackerel Season (September–November)The harbor is at its most lively during peak mackerel season — you can watch large numbers of boats dock and unload, while restaurants serve up the freshest mackerel dishes.

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Climb the Hilltop LookoutThe hilltop lookout overlooks the entire Nanfang'ao harbor; on a clear day you can see the Pacific horizon and the outline of Su'ao Bay.

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Browse the Waterfront MarketAfter boats unload, some of their catch is sold directly at the harbor's edge. Fresh-that-day fish goes on sale mostly from early morning through late morning.

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Stroll the Harbor-Side LanesThe residential area around the harbor preserves a traditional fishing-village layout. Wander into the alleys and you'll come across everyday scenes: nets drying, fishing gear being repaired.

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.

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