In order to promote an ecologically sustainable tourism environment and the diversified development of the tourism industry in the Penghu area, the Penghu National Scenic Area Administration of the Tourism Bureau, MOTC (hereinafter referred to as the "Penghu Management Office") has specially scheduled a training workshop from March 13~14, 2021 at the Multimedia Briefing Room of Penghu Living Museum. During the workshop, astronomical commentary and guided training courses will be provided to tourism industry professionals, with the aim for them to expand their knowledge of the vast starry skies and open up their interest and understanding of astronomy. All tourism industry personnel interested in exploring this field are welcome to sign up and participate in this event.

In recent years, astronomical tourism has become an emerging tourist draw across Taiwan. Penghu, which is rich in marine culture, is surrounded by the sea and boundless constellations under the starry night. After nightfall, the atmosphere is quiet and full of stars. Key sites include Snake Head Mountain on the main island of Magong, Shanshui Beach, and Daguoye Basalt Columns. By keeping away from light sources such as major urban settlements and industrial clusters, the identified sites possess prime conditions and potential to develop astronomical stargazing tourism.


Based on this rationale, in order to develop Penghu's diversified tourism resources, the Penghu Management Office has specially invited the “Southern Nightwalker” - Mr. Lu Chianghai and the director of Penghu Weather Station Chang Chin-Hsiung as the instructors. The lectures include introductions to the astronomy of the four seasons, astronomical guide and stargazing etiquette, as well as special content such as island astronomy, regional cultural itineraries and outdoor stargazing activities and guides. The content starts from foundational and easy-to-understand knowledge and is lively and interesting, featuring both dynamic and static activities. Through sustainable development and nighttime tourism concept training and education, the starry skies will be connected with captivating mythologies and hope to take root and inspire Penghu's tourism industry professionals to develop this niche market.

The Penghu Administration Office stated that through the guided astronomical training courses, Penghu’s relatively diverse tourism resources will be brought to veteran industry professionals' attention. It is hoped that in the future, nighttime stargazing trips can become a highlight on tour itineraries, which will increase the richness of Penghu’s tourism attractions to attract more visitors and make Penghu a prime tourist destination for budding stargazers.

There is no registration fee for this training course, and the number of applicants is limited to 60 (priority is given to tourism and tourism-related industry practitioners). All registrations will be made online. The registration date is from now until March 5th.