TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) presided over the opening of a new pickleball center on Friday featuring eight practice courts.

Hou said the pickleball courts will revitalize underused basketball courts within the Erchong Floodway in New Taipei Metropolitan Park. The courts cost NT$6 million (US$198,000), with nearly half coming from the central government and the remainder from the city, per Liberty Times.

During construction, the Taiwan Pickleball Association was consulted for advice about the facilities and the operational needs of pickleball courts. Hou said play on the courts is on a first-come, first-served basis.

The courts are lit in the evening and are open until 10 p.m. from Monday through Thursday and until midnight on Friday and Saturday. The venue is closed on rainy days or when the surface is slippery.

Pickleball is inspired by elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. It is often played on badminton courts but features a lower net and “non-volley zone.” The game is predominantly played as doubles, although singles matches also take place.

Hou said the construction of the riverside pickleball courts will encourage more citizens to undertake physical activity, as the sport has simple rules and is suitable for all ages. Furthermore, simple, affordable equipment such as paddles and plastic molded balls have contributed to the international popularity of the sport.

New Taipei City Councilor Yen Wei-tzu (顏蔚慈) applauded the new courts but said hot summer temperatures and intense sun along the river could cause pickleball players to experience discomfort. For this reason, she said the city should have created shaded rest areas and drinking water supplies to ensure a comfortable and safe environment for people to exercise.