TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – The Hualien County township of Fuli is launching a photography contest in an effort to win tourists back five months after a devastating earthquake, reports said Thursday (Sept. 19).

The magnitude 7.2 quake that struck on April 3 caused 18 deaths, and destroyed buildings, roads, and bridges in the east coast region. Frequent aftershocks have prevented travelers from returning to the area in droves, despite its picturesque scenery and rich cultural background.

Fuli Mayor Chiang Tung-cheng (江東成) said the national competition should attract photographers and viewers from all over Taiwan and even from overseas, per CNA. He pointed out that one of the townships’ main attractions, the daylilies, are blooming, covering Mount Liushidan in bright orange.

The Stray Bird 197 East Rift Valley Land Arts Festival has become a feature, while the Indigenous culture of the local population is on view all through the year, Chiang said.

The contest is divided into three categories, namely: people and culture, scenery, and aerial photography. Each contestant could submit a maximum of five pictures, which have to be taken this year, according to the mayor.

Any make of digital camera is allowed, but the images needed a minimum resolution of 2 megapixels. The deadline for the competition is 5 p.m. on Oct. 31.

The total prize pot amounts to NT$500,000 (US$15,600). Chiang added Fuli welcomed photographers from all over Taiwan, regardless of nationality.