Taiwan's "Toyosu Market" in the Making: Concerns Arise Over Accessibility of Kaohsiung's Revamped Fishing Harbor

Kaohsiung's ambitious revitalization of its fishing port faces transportation challenges, raising fears of limited accessibility and potential underutilization.

Kaohsiung's Qianzhen Fishing Harbor is undergoing an 8.1 billion NTD renovation, with the "Multi-Functional Aquatic Products Distribution Center" nearing completion. This center is designed to function as a combined fish market and tourist attraction.

During a recent session, Councillor Chen Lina raised concerns in the city council that neither the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) nor the light rail system currently reach Qianzhen Fishing Harbor. She emphasized that, without proactive planning, the facility could suffer from a lack of convenient transportation, potentially becoming a "mosquito hall" - a term for underutilized public infrastructure.

The Marine Bureau responded that a shuttle bus service is available from the MRT's Ciaotou Station to the harbor area. The Fisheries Agency is handling the overall parking space planning, and future management will be outsourced.

Prior to the Qianzhen Fishing Harbor's renovation, Mayor Chen Chi-mai visited Japan's Toyosu Market to gather insights. He aimed to incorporate successful elements into the planning of the Qianzhen Fishing Harbor's Multi-Functional Aquatic Products Distribution Center and fish market. Officials have expressed aspirations for the revamped Qianzhen fish market to surpass even Toyosu Market in its offerings and appeal.