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At least 13 dead in 7.1 Kumamoto earthquake

A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake devastated Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture on Tuesday afternoon, killing at least 13 people, toppling buildings, and triggering fires across the region. The tremor hit a maximum intensity of 7 on Japan’s seismic intensity scale. One of the deadliest places was the AEON mall, which was rocked by a gas explosion an hour after the main shock. Three people lost their lives, and three remain unaccounted for at the shopping center.

FTV reporters headed to the disaster area, where they recorded these images of the destruction one day later. The exterior walks have been blown off, and parts of the structural frame have collapsed. What remains inside the mall is mostly debris. The head of AEON says the mall had completed its evacuation procedures before the explosion happened. He says it is unknown why there were people still in the building at the time, but what is known is that they were all employees.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#japan #kumamoto #earthquake #eaon #quake

Time：2026-07-29

最新消息 Latest News

Taiwanese tourists capture striking videos of violent Kumamoto shaking

Among those caught in the terrifying temblor were Taiwanese tourists, who captured dramatic moments on camera as they fled shopping malls and shrines and braved the shaking in high-rise hotels. One of the more striking videos comes from a family that was shopping at a mall which later collapsed in an explosion.

Screams echo around the building, as objects crash and fall. Shoppers make a mad dash for the door. A 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Kumamoto on Tuesday evening scaring Taiwanese tourists witless.

The family ran out of the AEON shopping mall. Moments later, an explosion shook the building, which partially collapsed.

Guests at a hotel in the area recorded the shaking in their 14-th floor room, where everything swayed side to side. Out on the street, signs, tiles and other debris paint a picture of destruction.

Another tourist was shopping at Muji when the quake struck. Staff calmly ordered shoppers to grab the pillows from the shelves to protect their heads.

A Taiwanese woman living in the mountains kept receiving earthquake alerts.

- You can hear it. The alerts keep going off. We live in an old house up in the mountains.

The alarm sent tourists at a Shinto shrine scrambling to an open space.

- Wow, that was such a big quake.
- So big.
- Just as we were visiting the shrine.
- It was huge
- You shouldn’t be indoors. It’s shaking again!

Aftershocks rocked the region, leaving everyone on edge. Some rushed to convenience stores, and cleared the shelves off water, shelf-stable foods and instant noodles. Even abroad, Taiwanese can’t get a break from quakes.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#quake #earthquake #video #caughtoncamera #kumamoto

2026-07-29

TSMC’s operations in Kumamoto impacted by powerful earthquake

Also affected by Tuesday’s earthquake in Kumamoto was TSMC, which operates a production fab in the city. The company says the factory’s buildings remain structurally safe, and that employees are gradually returning to production lines. However, a full assessment of the impact of the earthquake remains to be finalized. Meanwhile, construction at TSMC’s second fab in Kumamoto has been suspended for now due to safety concerns. Let’s hear from an analyst.

Nobunaga Chai
Cloud Express
The equipment will have to be recalibrated, retested and inspected. Some parameters might have to be adjusted. With more than 200 machines requiring complex and precise procedures, it could take one week or even two. The wafers that were being made are probably completely destroyed. Assuming a capacity utilization rate of 80%, 40,000 12-inch wafers could be lost, from the monthly capacity of 50,000 wafers.

Though TSMC fabs were built by teams with extensive experience in seismic zones, experts say the violent shaking may have caused equipment to become misaligned, and wafers may have been damaged. In order for operations to resume as normal, technicians will have to recalibrate the machinery. An analyst says the disruption could affect TSMC’s profit margins for the current fiscal quarter in Japan, though insurance payouts could offset some of the losses in the coming quarter. It all depends on how long it will take for the company to recover.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#tsmc #tech #chips #kumamoto #earthquake #quake #japan #taiwan

2026-07-29

Retired Yilan couple runs ice cream shop to support temple

Have you ever seen a place of worship that sells ice cream? Attached to a temple in Yilan’s Yuanshan Township is a shop selling fruity ice cream run by the temple founders. Every flavor is named after a deity, like "God of Wealth" mango, or "Matsu" taro. After you’ve finished your treat, you can stop by the temple to pray for peace and prosperity.

Would you come down this alley to pray at the temple, or get a refreshing icy treat? Tucked beside this temple is a shop selling fruity ice cream. Every flavor is named after a deity, like “Matsu” taro, “God of Wealth” mango, or “Ji Gong” peanut. The owners of the shop also run the temple.

Ms. Lin
Ice cream shop owner
At the time, we figured since we’re both retired, we wanted to run a small business so we could look after the temple and the devotees could easily find us, too.

Mr. Hsieh
Ice cream shop/temple owner
We label the ice cream with the names of the gods based on what they like to eat.

The owner of this ice cream shop in Yilan’s Yuanshan also runs the temple next door, where he serves as a spirit medium. Over five years ago, the couple returned to their hometown to establish the temple. After his wife retired, the gods suggested they also open an ice cream shop next door. It allows them to look after the deities while also make some extra cash to cover temple expenses.

They had no idea how to make ice cream at first, learning everything through trial and error. For their grand opening recently, they also threw in an amulet designed like a miniature robe, drawing many people to pay a visit.

- Ah, so refreshing!

- All the flavors mixed together are pretty good. There’s a hint of lemon, and it’s not overly sweet.

Taking a bite of velvety smooth ice cream instantly melts away the summer heat. After you’re done, you can even head next door to pray, killing two birds with one stone.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#Yilan #temple #icecream #religion #Matsu #GodofWealth #divineguidance #retirement #smallbusiness

2026-07-29

Brekkie shop owner waiting for Shaolin call after headbutting door

Spotlessly clean glass may be satisfying to look through, but it can also be a hazard. A breakfast shop owner in Kaohsiung learned that the hard way after accidentally smashing her head into her own shop’s crystal-clear glass door. Distracted while checking an order she was handing to a food delivery driver, she walked straight into the door, cracking the glass with the impact. The accident was caught on her security camera. Let’s find out more.

Lala
Headbutted door
I was taking the delivery out to the driver so I didn’t notice. It’s hilarious. What am I like? I put up this sign today.

Lala’s friend
Kaohsiung
The doors were slid onto the same spot, so she didn’t notice.

Delivery worker
Kaohsiung
“I’m a glass door.” She must have just put that sign up. The glass is so clean.

Glazier
Commenting on incident
It was regular 5mm-thick glass. The chance of it cracking is quite small, but it depends on how hard you strike it. It might have had defects.

Lala has taken the incident in stride, as she only suffered a minor scratch on her forehead. She jokes that she wouldn’t be surprised if the kung fu masters from the Shaolin Temple dropped by to recruit her for her extraordinarily hard head. The breakfast shop has been open for just over half a year, and its owner says she never expected a video of her breaking the door to go viral, let alone breaking it with her iron head.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#funny #shaolin #breakfast #taiwanesebreafast #shop #caughtoncamera

2026-07-29

Language vitalization efforts by Taiwanese of Hakka heritage

Since the promulgation of the Development of National Languages Act in 2018, schoolkids must earn credits for a national language other than Mandarin. This could be Taigi, also known as Taiwanese, Hakka, or any of the 16 Indigenous languages. With Mandarin being the dominant language for the overall society, other national languages are usually a heritage language for most people. Still, not all heritage languages are equal. Sinitic languages spoken in Taiwan, including Taigi and Hakka, are far more dominant than Indigenous languages. And between Taigi and Hakka, the former is much more prevalent. But that does not stop Hakka people from embracing their language and culture. Let’s take a look at our special report on how the Hakka language is being revitalized in different parts of the nation.

As many as 90% of residents in Hengshan Township, Hsinchu County identify as Hakka. Aspects of Hakka culture, evident on Neiwan Old Street, are more than just tourist attractions. It’s embedded in daily lives.

The local Dadu Primary School has a little more than 200 students. All of them, from first- to sixth-graders, have gathered to learn their Hakka-language school anthem.

Hakka singer-songwriter Liu Jung-chang teaches at Dadu Elemetary School’s ukulele club. He composed the new school anthem, which debuted around a decade ago.

Liu Jung-chang
Singer-songwriter
I believed the new school anthem should be easily disseminated and catchy. The lyrics must be easy for kids to pick up, so that they know it after just one to two takes.

Liu opted to compose a catchy Hakka-language school anthem, so that kids would be willing to sing it often. It’s a lifeline for the local heritage language. Even though 75% of Dadu Elementary schoolkids are of Hakka descent, their Hakka-language skills suffer owing to a strong dominant Mandarin society-wide.

Liu Jung-chang
Singer-songwriter
Kids have to sing their school anthem. So it’d be great to have Hakka-language school anthems in predominantly Hakka neighborhoods, and Indigenous-language ones respectively, be it Atayal, Saisiyat or Amis. At least schoolkids can sing one song in their heritage language, and that song is also current.

Efforts to promote Hakka are challenged even in Hakka villages, not to mention in urban areas, where the language is hardly ever spoken.

As soon as Lin Chiung-han takes a seat in the classroom, the teacher descends from the lectern and sits with him for an one-on-one session. That’s because he’s the only one taking this Hakka class at Taipei’s Datong High School for mandatory local heritage language coursework at the middle school level.

Tso Chun-hsiang teaches three Hakka courses at Datong High School, each with less than five students enrolled. One is attended by a single student, Lin himself.

Lin Chiung-han
7th grader at Datong High School
In primary school, there was a larger group. There are also fast answer races, so one person speaking Hakka will encourage others to do the same. That way, everyone makes quick progress. The one disadvantage now is that I have no classmates to discuss with.

Even though Lin is the only student in the classroom, he’s still eager to learn, because Hakka is the primary language of communication between him and his maternal grandparents, who live in a Hakka village in Miaoli.

Lin Chiung-han
7th grader at Datong High School
My grandma took care of me until kindergarten. She spoke Hakka to me. At home, she watches news and listens to the radio in Hakka, and that’s how I picked up the language.

Although Lin is only one of the handful of students taking Hakka, there are far more students of Hakka descent opting to take Taigi instead.

Tso Chun-hsiang
Hakka language teacher
Most kids would take Taiwanese Taigi for local language credits. There’s a saying in Holo, “to take the larger slice of the watermelon.” Conformism makes it so that fewer and fewer students learn Hakka. It’s a vicious cycle. People are led to believe that Hakka is of no use in the future.

When fewer students of Hakka heritage opt to learn their language, teachers suffer too.

Tso Chun-hsiang
Hakka language teacher
Whether it’s parents or the wider society that discourages kids from taking Hakka in school, we teachers have less classes to teach. It’s simply not possible for one to make a living solely from teaching the language.

Kids may wish to join the Taigi-speaking majority. It could also be that parents believe it’s more practical for kids to learn Taigi. Either way, that makes the minority language even more susceptible to language death outside of Hakka villages. But on the bright side, some parents are proudly hanging on to their heritage.

On weekend mornings, 7-year-old Tsai-ni enjoys quality time with the family practicing speaking Hakka with her father over breakfast.

She’s currently a second-grader in Banqiao, New Taipei, and the only one in her homeroom learning Hakka. But at least she gets to attend Hakka classes with five other kids. Still, she’s sad that she couldn’t be with her friends in Hakka classes.

- How many people are you friends with in class?
- Five.
- What did they choose?
- Minnan.
- I told mom and dad I want to learn Minnan, because all my friends are learning Minnan.
- What did mom and dad say?
- They won’t let me.

Mr. Wu
Father
Because we’re Hakka, we hope our child can take Hakka language classes. It’s okay if she doesn’t become fluent. I think it’s alright if she’s able to understand conversational Hakka. It’s great that Hakka is offered at school, so she has more exposure to the language. Also, when we visit our parents, her grandparents and great-grandparents can still exchange a few words with her.

The Wu’s visit grandpa and grandma every weekend to keep the family close and give their daughter more opportunities to speak Hakka.

Mr. Wu
Father
I could understand and speak Hakka as a kid. It’s because I grew up hearing the older generations using the language. I was immersed in it in everyday life. If there’s something I didn’t understand, I’d ask my father. Little by little I learned the language.

Even though the Wu’s hope to create more opportunities for their daughter to use the language, her grandparents still mainly speak to her in Mandarin. Still, it’s better than nothing.

Mr. Wu
Father
Some Hakka villages are also tourist attractions, such as Nanzhuang, Beipu. Many tourist attractions in Taoyuan, Hsinchu and Miaoli are Hakka villages. She can practice speaking Hakka with local businesses. For example, I’d ask business owners to repeat in Hakka for my kid, and give her money to pay for us. She enjoys it too.

Luckily, the families of Tsai-ni and Lin still speak Hakka at home. But what about other kids whose parents and grandparents no longer speak the language fluently?

At Hengshan Junior High’s reading room, kids are excited for a picture book read aloud.

The book of the day is “Little Peach Girl,” a story about Hakka-style red tortoise cake. It’s read in Hakka and some Mandarin. This is a Hakka-language parent-and-child co-learning event hosted by Play Art Group, a local cultural and educational organization.

Play Art Group found that even though kids may learn Hakka at school, they often have no one to practice with at home or elsewhere, eventually resulting in attrition. So they hope to get parents involved and introduce Hakka into the household.

With an engaging story, kids easily pick up vocabulary related to the dish. But there’s more. They’re invited to make their own red tortoise cake.

From the screen to real-life, kids engage with Hakka culture with all five senses. Kids love these workshops.

Parent
Workshop participant
We’re three generations under the same roof. Her grandma speaks Hakka to her at home. We also want our kid to learn it.

Parent
Workshop participant
We live in Hsinchu County, where there are many Hakka speakers. We’re of Minnan descent, so we can’t really speak Hakka and can’t teach our kids Hakka, so we try to participate in Hakka-language events, so they have more opportunities to hear and learn the language.

The family friendly events allow kids and parents to learn Hakka together. For many families, it’s also an opportunity to pick up vocabulary.

Parent
Workshop participant
Last time we learned expressions for different types of bridges and many words for colors.

Liu Jung-chang
Singer-songwriter
Kids enjoy storytelling. Parents taking part with them may not be fluent in their heritage language, but they can still learn. Through repetition, kids can learn with their parents.

Though fluent speakers of Hakka are on the decline, it seems that there’s still hope.

Lin Chiung-han
7th grader at Datong High School
Hakka is not as mainstream, because most people are Taigi speakers. There are fewer people who will be able to pass on the culture and language. By choosing to take Hakka, the culture and language are still being passed on and made known to a greater number of people.

From mandatory heritage language coursework, to extracurriculars and even the home, Hakka is kept alive.

As long as the language and culture are still being taught, there’s always a chance for its revival.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#taiwan #languages #heritagelanguage #hakka #taigi

2026-07-29

Taiwan shares collapse on news of China semiconductor leap

Taiwan shares suffered their third-biggest crash on record on Tuesday, after reports emerged that China had made a major breakthrough in semiconductor technology. Asian markets melted down, with a 10% drop in South Korea and a 4% fall in Japan. In Taiwan, TSMC shares collapsed, and companies like Delta Electronics, Mediatek, and UMC closed limit-down, as did many memory and component firms. The Index shed 2,030 points, or 4.65% to close sharply down at 41,603 points.

The market panic stemmed from a report by American tech media outlet “The Information.” The headline rads “China begins mass production of homegrown DUV chip tools.” The plan is reportedly to produce five immersion deep-ultraviolet lithography machines in 2026, with an output target of 20 in 2027. The news has been seen as a break away from the monopoly led by Dutch firm ASML, which triggered a collective sell-off in global semiconductor equipment stocks. But, an analyst at JPMorgan believes the crash was an overreaction driven by market sentiment, as ASML maintains a significant technological and production lead over its Chinese competitors.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#tech #china #shares #stocks #stockmarket #tsmc #chips #semiconductor

2026-07-28

Japan eyes drone cooperation to detach from China supply chain

Japanese drone maker ACSL has been expanding into the defense, logistics, and disaster relief markets in recent years, with its small Soten photography drone already adopted by the Japan Self-Defense Forces. After ridding its supply chain of China-made components, the company is expanding cooperation with Taiwanese manufacturers, as it looks forward to the development of the lucrative AI robotics and drone markets.

Propellers whirling, this is the Soten drone developed by Japanese drone maker ACSL. It uses components from the US and Taiwan, fully avoiding the use of China-made parts.

Kensuke Hayakawa
ACSL representative director and co-CEO
We’re focused on the national defense market, so when delivering our products, we ensure as much as possible that they do not contain any components made in China.

The Soten drone targeting the national defense and information security marketshas already been adopted by the Japan Self-Defense Forces. Beyond defense applications, it can also be used for facility inspection, maintenance, and reconnaissance in earthquake disaster zones.

As its products find more applications, ACSL shipped about 1,000 units last year, generating revenue of 2.6 billion yen. Its products have already entered mass production, but the company admits that its biggest challenge moving forward is keeping Chinese manufacturers out of the supply chain.

Kensuke Hayakawa
ACSL representative director and co-CEO
When it comes to our collaboration with Taiwan, we believe that by working with Taiwanese enterprises, Japan and Taiwan can jointly build a supply chain that does not rely on China. We’ve already discussed various possibilities with a number of Taiwanese businesses. They have proposed many solutions and we have presented different requirements. Both sides are actively engaging in negotiations.

James Huang
TAITRA chair
The Japanese market is small compared to China. But as this becomes more true, the more it’s necessary that Japan and Taiwan work together to expand their markets. Besides further strengthening technological cooperation, they can expand together into third-party markets.

This large logistics drone can carry a maximum payload of 4.5kg over a distance of 40km. Through GPS positioning, it can independently route deliveries and emergency supplies.

Akira Amari
Japan Diet caucus for semiconductor policy
First of all, whoever controls semiconductors controls the world. I believe this is now a reality. Secondly, the focal point of semiconductors will shift from design and development to manufacturing capability. I believe this is also gradually becoming a reality.

Looking favorably on Taiwan’s manufacturing strength, Japan aims to team up with Taiwan to seize business opportunities within the non-China supply chain.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#nonredsupplychain #supplychain #drones #ACSL #TaiwanJapan #Soten #defensetech #semiconductors

2026-07-28

Kid on bike with training wheels runs red light and crashes into bus

A kid riding a bike with training wheels scared locals witless in Kaohsiung’s Siaogang District on Monday evening, after running a red light and crashing into a bus. The child was speeding down a road and failed to break at the traffic light, causing him to crash onto the side of a bus that was making a turn at the intersection. Fortunately, the kid made it out alive, and police are now looking for his parents, who could face a fine. Let’s hear more.

Witness
Saw the crash
The bus was making a turn, but the vehicle is so long that the driver didn’t see the kid. It was turning really slowly. Had it been any faster, the kid could’ve got run over.

Resident
Kaohsiung
Last week, that kid was riding his bike recklessly and crashing into everything, like a scooter someone parked next to the utility pole.

Member of public
Weighing in
The parents should be keeping watch over him.

Chen Kui-ho
Police officer
We are looking for the child’s parents. The bus does not seem to have broken any traffic laws. The child made an illegal right turn on a slow vehicle, which is finable with NT$300 to NT$1,200.

The kid has been going out on bike rides during the summer break. In this case, he picked up speed as he zipped along the road, apparently unaware of the danger he was putting himself in. Though he hit the back wheel of the bus, he didn’t get trapped underneath the vehicle, and lived to tell the tale.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#closeone #bike #bicycle #training #kid #summer #summerbreak

2026-07-28

HSR partners with supermarket on products to welcome new trains

The high-speed rail is to welcome its new generation of trains in August before they enter service next year. Looking to capitalize on railway business opportunities, one of Taiwan’s top supermarkets for the first time is working with the HSR on a series of cobranded lunchboxes and desserts. There will be pop-up stores at five major HSR stations, providing commuters with diverse and convenient dining choices on the go.

This familiar mascot is making a surprise appearance as a train conductor, pushing a food cart. One of Taiwan’s biggest supermarkets is partnering with the high-speed rail for the first time to offer a series of cobranded lunchboxes, giving passengers a new meal option.

Tony Tsai
Supermarket president
We’re setting up pop-up stalls at HSR stations—something we’d never have imagined doing in the past, putting a supermarket in a high-speed rail station. Most people would think of convenience stores. We look forward to HSR consumers being able to eat our delicious, piping-hot lunchboxes from these pop-up stalls.

In addition to the exclusive lunchboxes—braised pork, teriyaki chicken thigh, and sweet and sour chicken rice—there’s also cake, donuts, and Taiwanese-style pastries to satisfy every passenger’s sweet tooth. The first wave is already on sale at Taoyuan, Taichung, Chiayi, Tainan, and Zuoying stations.

Liu Hung-cheng
Supermarket associate marketing director
The HSR lunchboxes are served hot, which differs from the cold, Japanese-style bento. We’re offering these hot meals to align with the purchasing habits of HSR passengers.

Chen Hui-yu
Taiwan High Speed Rail general manager
Our next-generation trains are about to be delivered from Japan. They will offer a more comfortable, safer design, incorporating operational needs gathered from our past 20 years along with new design features.

As the HSR prepares to welcome 12 new trains in August, the railway is also selling official merchandise like train-shaped pillows, perfect for the rail enthusiast looking forward to the next generation of Taiwan’s HSR.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#highspeedrail #HSR #bento #lunchbox #cobranding #N700ST #railwaylunchbox #trains

2026-07-28

Taiwan to disrupt mobile data services as part of military drill

The Ministry of National Defense outlined the schedule and key training objectives for this year’s Han Kuang live-fire military exercises. The exercises will take place from Aug. 5 to 14, and or the first time, will include a mobile internet disruption drill in Northern and Central Taiwan. The drill will simulate communications disruptions during a national emergency causing mobile data services to slow down. The National Communications Commission says that critical services such as ATMs, emergency response systems, and police communications will not be affected. Let’s hear more.

Liang Po-chou
National Communications Commission
We will conduct a mobile internet disruption drill as part of the disaster relief exercises in Central and Northern Taiwan. The connection slowdown will extend to government agencies, military units, schools, businesses, and the general public. In accordance with evacuation guidelines, securities firms will suspend indoor and outdoor operations during the 30-minute exercise, and civil defense personnel and employees will assist the public with evacuation procedures.

Lu Wen-yuan
Joint Operations Division
Command centers at all levels will operate at full capacity in order to strengthen command, control, and emergency response capabilities. By integrating changing battlefield conditions and simulated enemy actions, the exercise will train commanders and staff to make rapid assessments, operational decisions, and issue timely orders.

The mobile internet disruption drill is a new addition to the exercises, which will continue to feature computer-assisted command post exercises, immediate combat readiness drills, and unscripted joint defense exercises. The network slowdown will affect an estimated 17 million people across 14 cities and counties. The government stresses that it is only a temporary slowdown. Voice calls, SMS services, fixed-line internet and Wi-Fi will remain operational.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#internet #connection #data #wifi #drills

2026-07-28

Half a zebra crossing leaves Taipei pedestrians stranded

Imagine stepping onto a zebra crossing, only for it to disappear halfway across the road. That’s exactly what happened at a busy intersection in Taipei’s Shilin District, where partially erased road markings left pedestrians stranded in the middle of traffic. The bizarre sight sparked confusion and safety concerns, especially because it’s right next to a popular children’s amusement park. City officials now admit the contractor made a mistake and say they’ll add signs to explain the new traffic layout.

- The zebra crossing is gone!

The zebra crossing marks disappears bang in the middle of the road. In deep disbelief, the local borough warden posted a video about it on social media. But the markings have yet to reappear.

Lee Shih-chen
FTV reporter
I’m at the site of the video 12 hours later. The markings are nowhere to be seen, but in the distance, you can see the zebra crossing starts out of nowhere. So can you cross? Or not?

Parent
Stumped at crossing
It’s so dangerous. If I get there, I’d wonder whether it’s OK to cross or not.

Parent
Stumped at crossing
If there’s road work, they should put up a sign saying you should cross somewhere else. The markings only reach halfway across.

The dark areas show that there used to be a zebra crossing that was removed at some point. Pedestrians crossing from the painted side are left stuck right in the middle of the road. What’s worse, this crossing is right next to the Taipei Children’s Amusement Park, meaning there’s lots of parents with kids here.

Chi Chien-han
Hougang Borough Warden
They park there and they have to cross the road to get to the amusement park, or to the Shuangxi wetland park, which is also a popular spot. The government should be paying more attention to safety during road work, and put up signs.

Voice Hsu Chuan-lun
Taipei Traffic Engineering Office
We’re really sorry for this incident. We will be adding signage this afternoon to let the public know that the traffic management measures in this area will be a bit different.

The Taipei City Government says the contractors made a mistake, saying that the zebra crossing should have been completely erased, as the road markings have changed. But with no signs to explain the change, the new layout has caused plenty of confusion.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#zebracrossing #road #traffic #lanemanagement #urbanplanning #cityplanning

2026-07-28

Mingde Reservoir zip line offers spectacular views for thrill seekers

The Miaoli County Government has set up a zip line high above Mingde Reservoir for the thrill-seeking tourist. Measuring in at 330m long, it’s currently the longest zip line in western Taiwan. The internationally certified facility has attracted many visitors to experience the breathtaking views at Mingde while soaring high above the lake.

After suiting up in safety gear, it’s time to take off! One person swoops down over the lake as the next prepares to launch. But this time isn’t as smooth…

The staff member tries to soothe her nerves, telling her not to be worried—it’s perfectly safe.

- Step your leg over.
- Ahh, it’s too scary!
- This is the small one. Next is the big step. Lift your feet. Lift your feet!

But the body doesn’t lie. Her friends couldn’t stop laughing.

- Ahh!! Ahh!!
- I’ll hold you. I’ll hold you.
- Let go! Let go! Let go!!

She finally made it! This zip line stretches for 330m, allowing people to enjoy the beautiful scenery at Miaoli’s Mingde Reservoir while soaring through the air. In addition to the zip line, thrill seekers can also try their hand at this aerial bike.

Chung Tung-chin
Miaoli County Commissioner
Everyone is very welcome to come and test out their courage. It’s thrilling. I think it’ll be a hit with younger people. I hope everyone visits Mingde Reservoir to walk around and see for themselves.

Aside from the aerial activities, people looking for a slower pace can also take a boat out on the lake. The theatrical re-release of the remastered classic The Dull Ice Flower has brought renewed attention to this reservoir, where it was filmed. By adding new facilities, the county hopes to inject fresh energy into these gorgeous surroundings.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#MingdeReservoir #Miaoli #zipline #thrillseeking #aerialbike #DullIceFlower #tourism

2026-07-28

Taiwanese opera summer program puts on shows made for families

Traditional opera isn’t just for adults! Immersion in the art form can also help young kids fall in love with Taiwanese culture. This summer, the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the National Center for Traditional Arts and local troupes launched a summer children’s opera tour. The program allows kids at rural schools and townships to get up close and personal with Taiwanese opera and puppet theater to learn for themselves the charm of these traditional performing arts.

Brought alive by the puppeteers’ skill, cloth characters bound across the stage, drawing thunderous applause from the audience.

Another staple of Taiwan’s traditional arts, this Taiwanese opera performance also won enthusiastic applause.

Combining modern theater with child-friendly themes, these shows are tailored to young audiences to give families a fun summer activity.

Tang Mei-yun
Tang Mei Yun Taiwanese Opera Company
From glove puppetry to Taiwanese opera—even though it’s still an opera, you can see how their dedication, creativity, choreography, and design sets them apart from other operas, and makes them suitable for the entire family.

Shifting away from the rigid classroom structure by inviting children to watch performances, the National Center for Traditional Arts encourages everyone to step outdoors to foster children’s understanding of traditional opera.

Li Yuan
Minister of Culture
We hope our children can enjoy a childhood like mine, where I could watch traditional performances, Taiwanese opera, puppet theater. We hope that these puppet shows will some day enter mainstream culture.

Chen Yueh-yi
National Center for Traditional Arts director
Bring the kids out, and bring the parents along, too! Mom, Dad, and kids, all together for a summer family extravaganza—a grand showcase of children’s opera.

This program is helping local Taiwanese culture take root among the younger generations, bringing children into the extravagant world of traditional opera!

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#Taiwaneseopera #gezaixi #glovepuppetry #traditionalperformance #TangMeiyun #summerprogram #familyactivity #childrenstheater

2026-07-28

Hong Kongers come to Taiwan to see golden retriever, leave money for treats

A golden retriever named Cola who lives at a scooter repair shop in New Taipei’s Banqiao District went viral thanks to a video of him hopping onto a police scooter. The owner regularly posts videos of Cola interacting with people, building a loyal online fan base. Recently, a pair of tourists from Hong Kong came especially to see their favorite celebrity dog. They tried to give cash to the owner to buy treats, but he refused, so the couple shoved the money into his hand and bolted before he had a chance to return it.

Tourists with backpacks walk into a scooter repair shop and shove some bills into the mechanic’s hand before running away. He tries to chase after them to return the money, but they start running faster. The couple traveled from Hong Kong specifically to give him money for dog treats.

The owner of this shop in New Taipei’s Banqiao District keeps a golden retriever named Cola. The dog became an overnight celebrity after he was caught on camera blocking a police scooter and jumping on for a ride. Thanks to his friendly antics, Cola already has over 36,000 followers on social media.

Hung Chiao-hsuan
FTV reporter
This is Cola, the golden retriever who drew tourists all the way from Hong Kong just to see him. He’s super friendly and will run right up to anyone who comes by.

Cola’s owner
Some tourists from Hong Kong came after seeing him online. They shoved money in my hand to buy treats for him. But I figured, since they’re visitors, it wouldn’t be right to take their money. So I donated it to stray dogs in need.

From a tiny three-month-old puppy, to a three-year-old giant weighing in at 43kg, Cola may be older, but he hasn’t lost his energy. As soon as he sees someone, his tail starts wagging uncontrollably.

Cola’s owner
When we’re busy with work, we can’t pay attention to him every second. So when people come by and play with him, it actually makes things easier on us.

- I came to fix my bike, but the mechanic said it isn’t necessary.
- It doesn’t need fixing yet.
- So you stayed to play with the dog?
- Yeah.

The owner shared the donation receipt to show that all the money from the tourists went toward an organization that helps strays, helping even more dogs receive good care.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#dog #goldenretriever #mechanic #viralpet #charity #Colathedog #Banqiao

2026-07-28

Japanese lawmaker Furuya Keiji receives Order of Brilliant Star

This Monday morning President Lai Ching-te awarded an Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon to Japanese House of Representatives Member Furuya Keiji for his outstanding contributions towards deepening Taiwan–Japan relations. Lai also said he looks forward to working with Japan in the future and having the support of Furuya, who is head of the Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council. Together, Lai said, the two countries will help one another prosper while contributing towards fostering peace, stability, and economic development in the Indo-Pacific.

During his speech, Furuya expressed his gratitude to Lai. The Japanese lawmaker also shared how China sanctioned him back in April for his many visits to Taiwan. China’s punishment included freezing his assets in China as well as banning him from entering the country. Furuya said the sanctions will have no effect on him, as these coercive tactics are part of China’s playbook. For this reason, he believes all countries having shared values of democracy, rule of law, and human rights should strengthen their cooperation.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#Chinesesuppression #diet #Japan #Taiwan #FuruyaKeiji #PresidentLai #OrderofBrilliantStar

2026-07-27

Popular swim spot under scrutiny after man drowns

A popular natural swimming spot in Keelung has come under scrutiny, after the death of a swimmer this past weekend. The location is Shigong Pond, in Qidu District, where locals flock to on hot days, despite a sign saying that swimming is forbidden. The man who lost his life was surnamed Chu, and was in his 50s. He had submerged himself underwater, and didn’t come to the surface for a period of time, prompting others in the area to rush to his rescue. People who frequent the spot say there are plenty of areas where the water isn’t deep, and there’s even a swimming club that meets at the pond. But a government official says the site is dangerous, and a city councilor is urging the government to do something about it.

In the blazing summer heat, swimming spots like these are packed. It was here where tragedy struck on Sunday, as a 53-year-old man lost his life after he submerged himself and never came back up.

Swimmer
Tried to help with rescue
His wife told us her husband was underwater. When we brought him up, his body was all white. His feet were white. He wasn’t breathing, and had lost his pulse.

The man drowned at the Shigong Pond in Keelung’s Qidu District, considered a hidden gem for locals trying to stay cool in the heat. The victim was Mr. Chu, who’d brought over his wife and two kids on a day out. His wife started getting alarmed when she felt he was underwater for too long, and called for help. Two men jumped right in the water to rescue him, but he was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Tsai Fu-ning
Keelung official
Though Shigong Pond appears calm, there are often whirlpools and areas where the water is very deep. It’s dangerous. It’s a water-management facility, not a recreational pool.

Officials say the site is not meant for dips, but judging from the amount of swimmers, one would think otherwise. The pond is 300m long and can reach depths of 2.5m. There’s even a swim club.

Swimmer
Swims safely
It’s not that different from a natural stream. It doesn’t get deep all of a sudden. You can reach the bottom until quite far in.

The sign says no swimming, and yet, there’s an area to rinse off after a swim. Since last year, City Councilor Tong Tzu-wei has been warning about the potential dangers of the site, saying that it’s not managed properly. He’s calling on the city government to do more than just put up a sign and consider the matter done with.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#swimming #keelung #naturalpool #pond #summer

2026-07-27

Staff at all-you-can-eat buffet go on mad chase after rat

The customers at an all-you-can-eat buffet were treated to a dinner-and-show spectacle starring a sewer rat. The incident happened on Sunday evening in Kaohsiung. The rat wreaked chaos as soon as it showed up in the dining area, setting off a mad chase by members of staff. Some suspect that the recent pest-control measures at the department store pushed the rat to make its public appearance. Let’s hear more.

Voice of Chung Yun-yan
Restaurant group PR
The rat ran to the emergency exit at the back, where it was caught and later killed. After the dining service last night, we will strengthen our disinfection and hygiene measures. None of the diners felt unwell or felt that the matter was not resolved properly.

Member of public
Commenting on rat chase
At department stores, the air ducts are connected. Rats and things like that are inevitable.

Member of public
Commenting on rat chase
I’d freak out. But, it’s quite normal for there to be rats and roaches at restaurants.

- Would you be worried about safety?
- Yes. If there’s rats, it’s not clean.

A diner reports that she was chowing down her food when the rat crawled past for the first time. What’s worse is that the rodent decided to make a second pass, practically touching her feet. Staff members rushed to corner the rat, in a scene fitting of a high-stakes action movie. Health authorities say they will inspect the premises to find any rule breaches, while the restaurant says it has expanded it pest-control measures.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#buffet #upscale #allyoucaneat #mukbang #rat #funny #lol

2026-07-27

Tainan, Kaohsiung restaurants earn Michelin star within year of opening

This year’s Michelin Guide has been released! After just opening last year, Yu Dao in Tainan was awarded a star for its seasonal Taiwanese flavors prepared with French techniques. Hābu in Kaohsiung was also given a star after being open for less than a year. Coming from a family of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, the founder incorporates medicinal herbs into Japanese kaiseki cuisine, making it Taiwan’s very first starred restaurant inspired by traditional medicine.

A crispy shell made from red dates complements perfectly with the date puree inside for the perfect guilt-free treat. It’s hard to imagine using medicinal herbs in fine dining, but this small bistro in Kaohsiung, Hābu, has managed to do just that. Their creativity earned them a Michelin star this year.

Shawn
Hābu owner
I was surprised of course, but I also hope that the recognition can help us continue to make traditional herbal medicine a part of people’s lives in different ways.

Coming from a family of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, the owner, Mr. Lu, carefully selects herbs sold wholesale by his family and uses them to craft signature spice mixes, seamlessly blending them with everyday cuisine.

Shawn
Hābu owner
We use traditional medicinal ingredients along with fresh herbs. When guests take it home, it’s a bit like a scent diffuser, but it’s actually very soothing.

Just as traditional medicine emphasizes seasonal wellness, so does the chef by incorporating French marigold and thyme into the dessert. Ingredients with light and refreshing herbal scents help dispel internal heat, cementing the establishment as Taiwan’s very first “herbal medicine” restaurant with a Michelin star.

Tsai Chih-fan
Hābu executive chef
In the summer, we focus on nourishing the heart, so we use more red ingredients. As for spices, during the summer, we adopt milder, more refreshing spices and medicinal herbs.

Yu Dao in Tainan, which also opened last year, was also awarded a star by the Michelin Guide. They source about 70% of their ingredients from Tainan, which they prepare using French culinary techniques to reinterpret these seasonal foods.

Yang Po-wei
Yu Dao executive chef
Lotus seeds from Baihe, as well as pineapple and green bamboo shoots from Guanmiao are all items we frequently have on the menu.

The executive chef is a Tainan native who returned from Taitung to open the restaurant. He hopes to prove that there’s more to Tainan than just street food.

Chen Yi-ting
Yu Dao manager
I got goosebumps when I heard we got a star! I truly feel like this recognition reflects the hard work put in by every single member of the team.

From reinterpreting local Tainan flavors to pioneering uses of herbal medicine in Kaohsiung, a new generation of restaurateurs has landed Michelin stars with their creativity. They’ve not only breathed new life into traditional cuisine, but also opened a fresh chapter in Taiwan’s culinary map.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#MichelinGuide #Michelin #restaurants #Tainan #Kaohsiung #Yudao #Habu #traditionalChinesemedicine #herbalmedicine

2026-07-27

Public embraces piano outside Weiwuying to perform

A public piano outside the Weiwuying performing arts center in Kaohsiung has been getting a lot of use recently, with people giving spontaneous piano, violin, and vocal performances. In a report live from the venue, FTV found that shockingly, many of these talented musicians don’t have any formal training. They only came to Weiwuying to share their passion for music.

A lilting melody lifts from the piano, accompanying a vocalist’s haunting voice. They’re performing at the main hall outside Weiwuying in Kaohsiung while many spectators listen, spellbound.

Another pianist plays while singing in his deep, resonant voice. This musician, Chen Yin-chun, just graduated from high school and is set to attend Taipei National University of the Arts later this year.

Chen Yin-chun
Performer
It seemed like anyone could go play, so I thought, hey, why not give it a shot? Then more and more people stopped to listen, and I started getting a greater sense of accomplishment. It feels like I’m sharing something.

Many videos have been going up online of amateur musicians giving stunning performances here outside Weiwuying. While professionals are gracing the stage inside, many different talents can have their time to shine out here. Playing in this plaza has become a cherished hobby for many.

Hsu Chia-fang
Performer
Many of the people here are self-taught. It made me realize that I could also try teaching myself piano. Actually, all of this was taught to me by the people here.

With both amateurs and professional teachers popping up to perform, it’s also become a favorite spot for spectators.

Local resident
Relaxes at Weiwuying
Often when I’m at home, I feel uncomfortable and find it hard to relax. But coming here to listen to this really relaxes me.

Local resident
Listens to music at Weiwuying
I think it’s fantastic that we can come to a public space like this to listen to music that you’d otherwise hear in the concert hall.

Hsu Chih-wei
Weiwuying technical manager
We’ve seen so many casual musicians and all kinds of people coming to play and showcase their talent here. It makes all the hard work of maintaining and caring for this place feel truly worth it.

A single piano placed out in public can draw out all kinds of hidden talent. People here are making friends too, filling both the inside and outside of Weiwuying with the joy of music.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#Weiwuying #publicpiano #hiddentalent #musician #amateurmusician #music #selftaught #talent

2026-07-27