Kenting, one of Taiwan's most popular tourist destinations, is facing a decline in visitor numbers, leading to some hotels and businesses shutting down. While officials are finding ways to revive the domestic tourism scene in the southern resort town, many are already feeling the pressure of keeping their companies afloat.
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00:00This street in southern Taiwan, once a lively tourist hotspot, now stands deserted.
00:06Kenting, a beach resort in Pingtung County, has long been one of Taiwan's top travel destinations,
00:12but it's facing a sharp decline in visitors.
00:15Since the country lifted its COVID restrictions in 2022, more Taiwanese have opted for overseas
00:21trips, leaving these shops to grapple with fewer customers.
00:24Now there are a lot of foreign tourists, and I don't have a driver's license for my motorbike.
00:30It's been two or three days and I haven't been able to go to the market.
00:32Three of the area's hotels are now shutting their doors.
00:36At least one say it's closing for renovations.
00:39But those in the tourism sector are increasingly feeling the strain of sustaining their businesses.
00:44More than 8 million travelers visited Kenting in 2014.
00:48During the pandemic in 2021, that figure fell more than 70% to just a little over 2 million.
00:54Last year saw only a slight increase, with 2.14 million visitors.
01:00Some say the government should take responsibility for the losses incurred by Kenting's businesses.
01:05If we hold an event, will it be good for everyone?
01:08Look, we're holding it in the city.
01:10Can't we hold a concert or something here?
01:13Will our economy recover?
01:15In response, officials are finding ways to revive the domestic market in Kenting,
01:19such as highlighting the area's national park.
01:21The Kenting Management Office is cooperating with us.
01:25We hope to improve the facilities and management of the National Park.
01:33While challenges remain, local businesses and officials hope that by revitalizing Kenting
01:38and enhancing its appeal, the area can once again reclaim its status as a beloved destination
01:44for both domestic and international travelers.
01:47John Su and Chelsea Wu for Taiwan Plus.