Penghu

Penghu is a Taiwanese island county made up of around 90 islands and islets in the Taiwan Strait, with Magong City as its main hub. Known for basalt cliffs, clear shallow waters, traditional fishing villages and strong seasonal winds, the archipelago feels quieter and more relaxed than Taiwan's west-coast cities.

The county's history runs through Ming and Qing-era fishing and trade, Japanese rule, and modern Taiwan. Magong's Tianhou Temple, one of Taiwan's oldest Mazu temples, and the historic Central Old Street sit close to the harbor, while old stone houses in Erkan and Xiyu villages preserve the islands' traditional architecture.

Outdoors, visitors explore the Penghu Great Bridge linking Baisha and Xiyu, the columnar basalt formations, sandy beaches, and offshore islands such as Qimei with its Double-Heart of Stacked Stones. The Penghu Aquarium, Guanyinting Recreation Area and waterfront temples give first-time visitors an easy introduction to the islands.

Penghu is best known in summer for the Penghu International Fireworks Festival, snorkeling, boat trips and beach time, while strong northeast monsoon winds make winter quieter and windier. Seafood, brown sugar cake, cactus ice cream and harbour-side markets shape the local food scene.

Leisure travelers come for island hopping, cycling and coastal scenery, and business visitors use Magong's domestic flights, ferry links and small-scale services. The county's compact scale and relaxed pace make it a practical, memorable destination for short stays.