What most catches the eye in Nanliao is the large number of traditional old homes that still survive there. Located in central northern Huxi, next to the community of Beiliao, Nanliao never had as much success with fishing as its neighbor, so its economy focused on construction, fishing net repair, and fish processing. As the fishing industry has declined, people have continually moved away.
Village chief Zhao Jiaxie laments that “the only people left here are seniors. But,” he adds, “if through community regeneration we can make ourselves into the most unique and interesting community in Penghu, and create a good quality of life, then more young people will stay.” He has worked over the last four years not only to improve the local environment, but to revitalize cultural traditions.
As dusk approaches, the village chief takes a broom and sweeps up around the neighborhood, while his wife rides her motorcycle to a nearby beach to gather shellfish. Life here is just that simple. Whether this model of community revitalization will succeed depends on the determination and creativity of the people of Nanliao.
When you enter the community of Nanliao in the island county of Penghu, the first thing you see is a small garden. This was the idea of a young African in Taiwan as part of a volunteer exchange, turning a neglected empty space into a popular Facebook “check-in” location.
The sight of old homes scarred by the ravages of time reminds us of the “good old days.”
On days when the intense subtropical sun beats down relentlessly, the women of Penghu cover their heads and faces with towels to protect against the sun’s rays when they go out to work.
The old farm tools in this storehouse have not been used in a long time.
Penghu is very windy, so here and there you can see a modern wind turbine as backdrop to the old houses. The effect is a bit surreal.
Village chief Zhao Jiaxie is endeavoring to preserve distinctive local aspects of traditional rural culture. In this picture he is explaining to visitors how residents once used cow patties for fuel.
On weekends and holidays, this space is transformed into a farmers’ market. The paintings on the wall, done by a community planner, reflect the revitalization of the village.
A dog sleeps in a courtyard; the pace of life here really is this leisurely and relaxed.
Nanliao Village has a significant concentration of intact traditional homes. They are gradually being restored, and one day it is hoped that tourists will visit here to explore them.
Though today just a decrepit relic, this was once a place of luxury. The mind cannot help but imagine what life here must have been like all those years ago.
The people of Penghu have an innate appreciation for the land and do not ask too much of the earth. Nanliao is a model for the rural regeneration projects going on all over Taiwan.
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