Situated in Tainan’s Beimen Lagoon, Luzhugou boasts natural barriers and a stable inland sea environment, making it one of Taiwan’s prime regions for oyster farming. The area has a rich history in oyster cultivation, and its clean seawater produces oysters renowned for their exceptional freshness and flavor. These qualities make them highly sought after in the market. Currently, approximately 70% of the local population depends on oyster farming for their livelihood, with an annual output value of nearly $100 million.
Introduction
Historically, oyster farming was a demanding job with modest returns, causing many young residents to move to cities for other work, with mostly the older generation remaining. However, advancements in aquaculture technology and industry improvements have encouraged younger people to return. By integrating innovative approaches into the traditional industry and blending them with local culture, they have developed new business models, bringing a fresh vibrancy back to Luzhugou.
One such individual is Qiu Yongren, who hails from a family of oyster farmers. After completing his military service, he decided to return to his hometown to assist with the family business. He launched a mobile food truck to enter the night market scene and created the “Beimen Oyster Ren Grilled Truck,” which features fresh oysters grilled in their shells, each as large as a human palm.
At the Oyster Education Park, visitors can delve into the intricacies of oyster farming while engaging in tourism, cultural, and educational activities that draw people from around the globe. Guests have the chance to explore the fishing village and participate in hands-on activities, such as cracking oyster shells with their own hands, fostering a deeper connection to nature. A notable highlight is the “DIY Oyster Shell” project, where participants use clean, sun-dried oyster shells to create artistic crafts, adding a creative twist to the experience. The peak season for oyster farming in Luzhugou occurs from autumn to the Lunar New Year. During this period, tourists can observe the bustling activity of fishermen tossing clean oyster shells into the sea to allow larvae to attach, ensuring a bountiful harvest for the following year. These lively scenes are a favorite among visitors, who scramble to capture the vibrant scene of the fishing community.
Features of Agricultural Tourism
Fish Farming
The birth of the Oyster Education Park symbolizes the successful fusion of traditional industries with modern tourism and education, opening a new chapter for Luzhugou’s future. Qiu Yongren and his Oyster Education Park exemplify this transformation, demonstrating how local residents can find innovation within tradition, breathe new life into their village, and promote sustainable development in the process.
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