1st smoke-free Taipei Lunar New Year market to open on Jan. 11

Taipei, Jan. 7 (CNA) For the first time, Taipei's annual Lunar New Year market, which kicks off Jan. 11 this year, will be a smoke-free event, Taipei Deputy Mayor Lin Yi-hua (林奕華) said Tuesday.

Lin said during the duration of the market in the city's Dihua Street this year, the smoking of cigarettes will not be allowed to provide attendees with a clean environment in which they may shop comfortably to procure festive merchandise to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

According to the city government, those caught smoking within the designated zone will be fined NT$10,000 (US$306).

Lin said the city government would increase inspections during the event to ensure the new policy is upheld.

Lin announced the new smoke-free policy at a presser for the event organized by the city's Office of Commerce.

Lin also announced the expansion of free shuttle services from locations close to the market.

Free buses will run between Dihua Street and Taipei City Mall, Taipei Station Wholesale Market District, Huayin Street Shopping District, Rongbin Market, Ningxia Night Market and also Monga Night Market.

For 2025, market-goers will also be able to take free rides between the north of Dihua Street and Beimen Station.

Aside from connecting Dihua Street with other metro stations and shopping locations to create a rich experience, Taipei's Office of Commerce also announced that it has enlisted the participation of well-known artists to install five giant statues between Dihua Street and the street's landmark Yongle Market.

The five art pieces will feature elements surrounding the industries in the Dadaocheng Wharf area where Dihua Street is located, the office said.

Additionally, the office added that it has partnered up with over 100 shops in Taipei to participate in the annual market event by providing auspicious souvenirs and exclusive discount deals to Lunar New Year shoppers.