“Let it rip!” With the fishermen’s shout, flames pierce through the night sky and illuminate the sea surface as thousands of scaled sardines leap from the water, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. This traditional fishing method—known as the Jinshan sulfuric fire fishing method—is the last of its kind in the world. Timed with the fishing season, the event officially begins in May, and the Northguan Scenic Area Headquarters invites domestic travelers to visit Taiwan’s North Coast and personally experience this maritime feast combining culture, ecology, and sensory excitement.
Sulfuric fire fishing (pronounced “beng-huo-zai” in Mandarin) is a centuries-old fishing technique passed down along Taiwan’s coast. Fishermen use the intense flash produced by igniting sulfuric fire to attract fish schools, and the practice derives its name from the “beng” sound (“bang” in English) created during ignition. Through the long-term guidance of the Northguan Scenic Area Headquarters and the devotion of local fishermen, this precious cultural heritage has successfully transformed into a distinctive tourism experience, continuing to bring Taiwan’s unique fishing culture to the international stage.
The sulfuric-fire-fishing-and-land-tour package is diverse and engaging. One of the most popular activities, the “Fire Captain Experience,” is led by a professional team demonstrating the sulfuric fire ignition process. Under safe supervision, visitors may hold torches, shout “let it rip” and simulate the traditional fishing operation using a miniature sulfuric fire boat model, allowing them to closely experience the powerful charm of this traditional craft. The land-based tour includes guided walks through the Huanggang Fishing Village and the Fish Road Historic Trail, where visitors can trace the history of early settlers transporting fish catches across mountain paths. Travelers may also participate in fish-drying experiences and gain insight into the simple daily life of traditional fishing villages.
At dusk, visitors board a sulfuric fire sightseeing boat and enjoy a bowl of fresh squid rice noodles to begin a culinary journey. After nightfall, the marine ecological experience officially begins. Visitors can admire the famous Twin Candlestick Islets from afar and appreciate the extraordinary beauty shaped by nature, while also enjoying sea fishing along the way. Once the fishing boat locates a school of fish, its crew ignites the sulfuric fire, and golden-orange flames illuminate the sea surface. Drawn by the intense light, scaled sardines leap from the water, creating a spectacular scene. Lucky visitors may even have the opportunity to taste freshly caught seafood prepared on the spot.
Every traveler who has experienced sulfuric fishing will leave with unforgettable memories. Jinshan sulfuric fire fishing is not only a visual spectacle, but also a precious cultural experience where nature and human culture intertwine. Through the practice of sustainable fishing methods, Jinshan sulfuric fire fishing not only preserves a fading century-old fishing tradition, but also offers every visitor an opportunity to become a witness to and protector of this unique cultural heritage.
The Northguan Scenic Area Headquarters stated that the North Coast and Guanyinshan National Scenic Area is home to world-class landscapes and precious cultural assets. Attractions worthy of exploration by both domestic and international visitors include the world’s only remaining sulfuric fire fishing method, the hot springs of Jinshan and Wanli, the thousand-year-old geological wonders of the Yehliu Geopark, and the Heping Island Geopark, which has received multiple awards for sustainable tourism. Additionally, the Formosa North Coast Arts Festival was honored with Gold Winners at the 2026 MUSE Creative Awards, further showcasing the North Coast’s diverse and internationally recognized cultural appeal. Visitors from Taiwan and abroad are warmly invited to explore the North Coast, experience sustainable tourism, and appreciate the beauty of its mountains, seas, and cultural heritage.
Jinshan sulfuric fire fishing
Net used in the traditional fire-induced fishing method
Sulfuric fire ignition
Guided tour of Huanggang Fishing Village
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Recipient of the Gold Winner at the 2026 MUSE Creative Awards
Artwork presented at the Formosa North Coast Arts Festival
