Penghu Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and culture of Penghu, Taiwan with our comprehensive guide. Learn about spiritual temples, natural wonders, and delicious cuisine in this popular travel destination.


The Ultimate Guide to Penghu: A Traveler’s Paradise in Taiwan

Located just off the western coast of Taiwan in the Taiwan Strait, Penghu is a breathtaking archipelago of 90 islands and islets that is becoming increasingly popular with tourists. With its pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Penghu is a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history buffs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you the best places to visit, food to try, and things to do in Penghu, as well as provide helpful tips on getting around, safety, and culture.

List of Places to Visit in Penghu

Whether you’re looking to soak up some history, see natural wonders, or explore the local culture, Penghu has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit on your trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Daguoye Columnar Basalt: An unusual geological phenomenon of basalt columns that emerge from the sea
  • Penghu Tianhou Temple: One of the most significant temples in Taiwan, dedicated to the deity of the sea
  • Penghu Living Museum: A fascinating museum showcasing traditional islander life and culture
  • Penghu Hujing Cultural Park: A restored traditional village displaying the architecture, culture, crafts, and customs of the village

Natural Attractions of Penghu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wang’an Island: A small, quiet island located in the southwest of Penghu, famous for its coral reefs, cliffs, and caverns
  • Jibei Island: A beautiful and undeveloped island covered in lush forests and bordered by pristine beaches, offering great opportunities for hiking, camping, and photography
  • Double-Heart of Stacked Stones: A stunning natural wonder formed by two large stone hearts stacked atop each other, located in Baisha Township
  • Fenggui Cave: A massive natural cave carved into the basalt rocks, offering fantastic views of the ocean and the island

Hiking/Biking Routes of Penghu

Penghu’s incredible natural beauty is best explored on foot or by bike. From rugged coastlines to serene coastal paths, there are several hiking and biking trails to choose from. Here are some of the best routes for hikers and bikers:

  • Cimeiyu Black-faced Spoonbill Trail: As one of the most important habitats for black-faced spoonbills, this route takes visitors around the island of Cimei and offers breathtaking views of the offshore rocks and crystal-clear sea
  • Magong Bicycle Greenway: A 15-kilometer-long cycling path that runs along the coast, taking you through small villages, farmland, beaches, and spectacular scenery
  • Qingwan Scenic Area: A popular coastal path for hikers and cyclists, offering fantastic views of the volcanic rock formations, lighthouses, and turquoise waters
  • Mudouyu Island Nature Trail: A well-marked trail that takes visitors around the entire island, showcasing its rich marine life, geological wonders, and cultural heritage

Best Things to Do in Penghu: Activities and Tours

There are a plethora of activities to enjoy in Penghu, from exploring the islands to trying out local delicacies. Here are some of the must-try activities and tours on your visit:

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Penghu’s clear waters make it an ideal spot for watersports like snorkeling and scuba diving, where you can get up close with colorful coral reefs and diverse marine creatures
  • Wind and Kite Surfing: The moderate winds and waves in Penghu make it a perfect location for surfers looking to ride the waves
  • Island Hopping Tours: Penghu’s multiple islands offer incredible views from different vantage points, and visitors can take a tour that will take them through the numerous islands and attractions
  • Penghu Food Tour: Sample the delicious local cuisine including oyster omelettes, Penghu-style seafood, and traditional Taiwanese snacks like sun cake and pineapple cake.

Week-Long Itinerary for Penghu

A week may seem short to fully explore Penghu, but with this sample itinerary, you can maximize your time of exploration and relaxation:

Day Activity
Day 1 Magong Town, Daguoye Columnar Basalt, South Sea Visitor Center
Day 2 Cimei Island, Black-faced Spoonbill Nature Reserve
Day 3 Erkan Algal Reef, Sigong Village, Guanyin Buddhist Temple
Day 4 Jinsha Village, Fenggui Cave, Penghu Great Bridge
Day 5 Double-Heart of Stacked Stones, Shanshui Beach
Day 6 Central Street Area, Penghu Living Museum, Qimei Island
Day 7 Wang’an Island, Wang’an Lighthouse, West Bay Beach

Food and Drink Scene of Penghu

Food is a significant part of the culture in Penghu. The traditional cuisine reflects the island’s history and geography, featuring fresh seafood, local produce, and authentic Taiwanese snacks. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages to savor:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Oyster Omelette: A crispy omelet combined with fresh oysters and vegetables
  • Penghu-style Seafood: Fresh seafood dishes prepared in different styles, such as steamed, grilled, or fried
  • Penghu-style Eel and Chicken Soup: A delicious soup mixed with locally produced eel and chicken
  • Fried Rice with Dace Fish: A flavorful rice dish made with local freshwater fish

Local Beverages

  • Kaoliang Liquor: A type of Taiwanese sorghum liquor that is loved by locals and on the island frequently
  • Taiwan Beer: A popular beer brand in Taiwan that is perfect for hot weather and consumed by the sea.
  • Pineapple Juice: Sweet, delicious drink made from sweet Penghu pineapples.

Where to Stay in Penghu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Penghu offers several accommodation options to cater to the needs of different travelers. Whether you’re looking for luxurious hotels, budget-friendly hostels, or cozy guesthouses, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to stay on your visit:

  • Penghu Ocean Breeze B&B: Located in the center of Magong, this B&B offers comfortable rooms with ocean views and easy access to nearby attractions
  • Four Points by Sheraton Penghu: A luxurious hotel situated in the heart of the city, offering excellent facilities, gourmet food, and amazing views
  • Fong Guan Motel: A budget-friendly option located in a peaceful area, offering clean and cozy rooms with free Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Penghu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Penghu is renowned for its various handicrafts, especially sea coral products such as jewelry, ornaments, and various items made of coral. Other popular souvenirs and local products you can buy are dried seafood and snacks, local wines and traditional desserts, and handicrafts made of seashells and other island materials.

Local Culture and Customs of Penghu

Penghu has a rich cultural heritage that reflects a mix of Taiwanese, Chinese, and indigenous influences. Visitors should be mindful and respectful of local customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes and temples or covering shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites. The locals are welcoming and hospitable, so engaging with them will improve your experience.

Best Time to Visit Penghu

The ideal times to visit Penghu are during the spring (March - May) and autumn (September - November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Nevertheless, the summer months (June - August) offer lovely warm weather and the chance to go swimming and sunbathing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Penghu

Do:

  • Take shoes off before entering temples
  • Try the local cuisine, which is famous for the fresh seafood
  • Be respectful of local culture and customs
  • Leave only footprints while exploring the islands.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Take any corals or shells from the sea or beaches
  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious sites.

Safety and Health

Travelers to Penghu should be aware of the following safety and health considerations:

Safety in Penghu

  • There is little crime in Penghu, but visitors should take the usual precautions and maintain vigilance
  • Wear sunblock and insect repellent while exploring the islands to avoid sunburn and insect bites.

Health in Penghu

  • While tap water is safe to drink, it is recommended to consume bottled water to avoid any health problems
  • Mosquitoes and flies are prevalent in some areas, so wear protective clothing and use bug repellent.

Getting to Penghu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Penghu is relatively easy, with a few options to choose from. Here are some of the main transportation options to get to Penghu:

Airports Near Penghu

  • Penghu Airport: Located in Magong City, this airport offers direct flights to and from Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung.

Bus Stations Near Penghu

  • Magong City Bus Station: Located in Magong City, providing transportation to different parts of Penghu Island.

Other Options

  • Ferry: There are regular ferry services from Kaohsiung and Chiayi on the west coast of Taiwan.

How to Get Around in Penghu

To get around Penghu, visitors can rent scooters, bicycles or hire a taxi or a private car. The island is popular for cycling due to its low traffic and scenic routes. Renting scooters is popular as it provides the most flexibility to explore the islands freely.

Where to Go Next from Penghu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Penghu is a great starting point for exploring other parts of Taiwan. Here are some popular destinations near Penghu:

Kinmen Islands

  • Similar to Penghu, Kinmen is located near the coast of Taiwan, offering unique architecture, beaches, and history.

Taipei City

  • Taipei is the bustling capital of Taiwan, home to top-rated attractions, including museums, temples, night markets, and contemporary art festivals.

Conclusion

Penghu is a gem waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking for natural beauty, adventure, or cultural experiences, Penghu has something for everyone. This comprehensive guide has covered the best attractions, activities, and local culture of the archipelago, from historic temples and museums to the delicious cuisine and outdoor adventures. With this guide, you can make the most of your trip to Penghu and create lasting memories.

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    Jibei
    South Penghu Marine National Park
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