TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Kaohsiung will host the "Mazu's Blessing! Straw Hat Pirate Parade" on Saturday (March 14), as Netflix promotes the second season of its live-action series "One Piece" (航海王) with an event symbolizing blessings for safe voyages. The parade starts at 3 p.m. from the intersection of Chenggong 2nd Road and Haibian Road and concludes at Pier 16 of Kaohsiung Harbor. Mazu is Taiwan's sea goddess, widely worshipped by fishermen and sailors for protection.
The Kaohsiung City government introduced "Chopper Pedestrian Signals" at eight key intersections, including Haibian Road and Lingnanqian Road, the Bureau of Cultural Affairs confirmed. The signals feature the popular "One Piece" character Chopper to add a playful touch to the city. The Transportation Bureau said the signals are located in bustling areas and tourist routes to showcase Kaohsiung's cultural creativity.
Authorities will close both sides of Haibian Road and Chenggong Road from noon to 5 p.m. on Friday (March 13) and from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday. Kaohsiung is the only Taiwanese city among 13 global locations Netflix selected for special themed screenings of "One Piece." Officials recommend visitors take the Kaohsiung MRT to Sanduo Shopping District Station for a 10-minute walk to the event site. ◼