About Place
- "A hidden gem with rich cultural history and serene beaches."
- "Perfect blend of traditional Taiwanese architecture and stunning natural landscapes."
- "Unparalleled views of the Taiwan Strait with some of the most beautiful sunsets."
Reasons to Visit
- Historic Sites and Temples : Magong is home to the oldest Mazu Temple in Taiwan, which is a pilgrimage site for those honoring the sea goddess Mazu. The city also features other historic temples like the Four-eyed Well and the Central Street Historic District, which showcase the traditional Taiwanese architecture.
- Natural Beauty : The coastline of Magong is breathtaking, with clear waters, sandy beaches, and unique geological formations such as basalt columns. One of the most famous spots is Qimei Island, known for its Twin Hearts Stone Weir, an ancient fishing trap that has become a romantic symbol of the area.
- Local Culture and Festivals : Magong offers a glimpse into the unique culture of the Penghu Islands, with its blend of Han Chinese and indigenous influences. The Penghu Fireworks Festival, held every summer, is a spectacular event that lights up the night sky over the harbor.
Visa
- Taiwanese Citizens : No visa required.
- Visitors from the US, Canada, EU, and Australia : Visa-free entry for up to 90 days.
- Visitors from Southeast Asia : Nationals of countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei can enter Taiwan visa-free for up to 30 days. Others may need to apply for a visa in advance.
- Chinese Citizens : Special entry permits are required.
- Other Nationalities : It's advisable to check with the nearest Taiwan representative office or consulate as rules can vary.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Destination :
- Round-trip airfare from Taipei to Magong for a couple: Approximately $150 - $250 USD.
- Hotel Cost :
- Average cost per night for a mid-range hotel: $80 - $120 USD.
- Total for 3 nights: $240 - $360 USD.
- Food Cost :
- Estimated daily food budget for two: $60 - $100 USD.
- Total for 3 days: $180 - $300 USD.
- Activity Cost :
- Entry fees and ferry costs: Approximately $50 - $100 USD per couple.
- Near Destination Travel Cost :
- Car rental for 3 days: $150 - $200 USD.
Total Estimated Budget : $770 - $1210 USD
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Exploring Magong’s Historic Center Start your day by visiting the Mazu Temple, where you can explore the rich history and culture of the area. The temple opens around 8:00 AM, and you can spend a good hour here. Afterward, head to the Central Street Historic District by 10:00 AM to admire traditional buildings and shop for local crafts. Enjoy lunch at A Xin Shi Fu, a well-known restaurant serving delicious seafood, around 12:30 PM. In the afternoon, visit the Four-eyed Well and learn about its unique history. End your day with a sunset view at the Guanyin Pavilion, where you can enjoy the serene coastal environment. For dinner, try Wang Zhi Hong Seafood Restaurant for a taste of local delicacies.
Day 2 : Nature and Adventure Begin with an early morning visit to Qimei Island by ferry, departing at 7:00 AM. Explore the Twin Hearts Stone Weir and take a stroll around the island’s picturesque landscapes. Have lunch at a local eatery, trying out Penghu’s famous cactus ice cream. Return to Magong by 3:00 PM and spend your afternoon exploring the Fongguei Cave, a natural blowhole that is a must-see. For dinner, visit Erkan Traditional Village and dine at a local family-run restaurant. You can also enjoy a walk through the village and experience traditional Penghu architecture.
Day 3 : Beach Day and Relaxation Spend your final day relaxing on Shanshui Beach, one of the best beaches in Penghu, starting at 9:00 AM. Engage in water sports or simply sunbathe and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. For lunch, visit Shanshui Seafood Restaurant located near the beach. In the afternoon, take a drive to Jibei Island to experience its famous sandbar and enjoy some quiet time before returning to Magong. End your day with a dinner at Penghu BBQ, where you can grill fresh seafood and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Be mindful of the weather; Penghu can be windy and experience sudden storms.
- Use sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially when exploring beaches.
- Respect local customs and religious sites.
- Rent a scooter or car from a reputable agency.
- Learn basic Mandarin phrases; English might not be widely spoken.
- Keep cash on hand; some smaller establishments might not accept cards.
- Be cautious of strong currents when swimming.
- Have a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi for navigation.
- Familiarize yourself with ferry schedules for island hopping.
Flights
- From Taipei to Magong: Daily flights via Uni Air and Mandarin Airlines. The journey takes about 1 hour. Estimated cost is $75 - $125 USD per person.
Hotels
- Four Points by Sheraton Penghu : A modern hotel with sea views.
- Penghu Farmers’ Association Resort : Offers traditional style accommodations.
- Bayhouse Hostel Penghu : A budget-friendly option with great reviews.
- Discovery Hotel : Located near the harbor with convenient access.
- Yentai Hotel : Known for its excellent service and comfort.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Taiwan (Taipei) : +886-2-2720-1120
- Police : 110
- Ambulance and Firefighters : 119
- Nearest Hospital : Penghu Hospital, +886-6-926-0066
Country
Closet Airport
- Penghu Airport (Makung Airport, MZG)
Nearest City
- Taipei
Heritage Sites
- Mazu Temple
Airlines
- Uni Air
- Mandarin Airlines
- Far Eastern Air Transport
Currency
- New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)
Languages Spoken
- Mandarin Chinese
- Taiwanese Hokkien
Real Story
The Siege of Magong is a pivotal event in the history of the Penghu Archipelago, marking the transition of Taiwan and its outlying islands from Chinese to Japanese rule. The event took place during the First Sino-Japanese War, a conflict between the Qing Dynasty of China and the Empire of Japan, primarily over influence in Korea.
Background: In 1894, Japan launched a series of military campaigns against Qing China, aiming to establish dominance in East Asia. The Penghu Islands, including Magong, were of strategic importance due to their location in the Taiwan Strait, which provided a crucial naval gateway between China and Taiwan. Control over these islands would give Japan a significant advantage in their military and logistical operations.
The Siege: In March 1895, as the Japanese forces advanced towards Taiwan, they recognized the need to secure the Penghu Islands. The Japanese navy launched a full-scale attack on Magong, which was defended by Qing forces. The siege was intense, with heavy bombardment from Japanese warships targeting the fortifications and defenses around Magong Harbor. The Qing defenders, outgunned and outmaneuvered, put up a valiant fight but were ultimately overwhelmed by the superior Japanese forces.
By late March, the Japanese had successfully captured Magong, securing the entire Penghu Archipelago. The fall of Magong was a significant blow to Qing China, as it not only paved the way for the Japanese invasion of Taiwan but also demonstrated Japan’s growing military prowess in the region.
Aftermath: The capture of Penghu was followed by the Treaty of Shimonoseki in April 1895, which officially ended the First Sino-Japanese War. Under the terms of the treaty, the Qing Dynasty ceded Taiwan and the Penghu Islands to Japan, marking the beginning of 50 years of Japanese rule over Taiwan. The Japanese occupation brought significant changes to Magong and the Penghu Islands, including modern infrastructure developments and the introduction of new administrative systems. However, the event also marked the beginning of a period of resistance and adaptation for the local population, as they navigated the challenges of foreign rule.
The Siege of Magong remains a significant chapter in the history of Taiwan and Penghu, symbolizing both the end of Chinese sovereignty over the islands and the beginning of a new era under Japanese control.
Cuisine
Local & Unique Cuisine of Magong:
The cuisine of Magong is a reflection of its island geography and cultural heritage, with a heavy emphasis on fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. The flavors are often simple yet rich, allowing the natural taste of the ingredients to shine.
Seafood Delicacies: Given its location, it’s no surprise that seafood dominates the culinary landscape of Magong. One of the most popular dishes is Grilled Cuttlefish. The cuttlefish is usually marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and local spices before being grilled over an open flame. The result is a tender, flavorful dish that is often served with rice or noodles.
Brown Sugar Cake (黑糖糕): A local dessert that you must try is the Brown Sugar Cake. Made from a mixture of brown sugar, flour, and water, this cake is steamed rather than baked, giving it a soft, almost pudding-like texture. The deep, molasses-like flavor of the brown sugar pairs perfectly with tea, making it a popular treat among locals.
Cactus Ice Cream: One of the most unique treats you’ll find in Magong is Cactus Ice Cream. This vibrant pink dessert is made from the fruit of the local cactus species, known as the “prickly pear.” The ice cream has a sweet and tangy flavor, and it’s a refreshing treat, especially during the hot summer months.
Wadan (外旦): Another traditional dish you should try is Wadan, a type of rice cake wrapped in bamboo leaves. Wadan is similar to the more widely known Zongzi but is unique to Penghu in its preparation and flavor. The rice cake is usually filled with savory ingredients like pork, mushrooms, and salted egg yolk, then steamed to perfection. This dish is particularly popular during festivals and religious celebrations.
Penghu-style Hotpot: For a communal dining experience, try the Penghu-style Hotpot. This dish brings together an assortment of local seafood, including shrimp, crab, clams, and fish, simmered in a broth made from locally sourced herbs and spices. It’s a hearty and warming meal, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Magong’s cuisine is a delightful mix of tradition and innovation, offering visitors a taste of the island's rich cultural heritage through its food. Each dish tells a story of the island's history, its connection to the sea, and the creativity of its people in using the resources available to them.
Culture and History
Magong, the largest city in the Penghu Archipelago, is a treasure trove of cultural heritage shaped by centuries of maritime activity, trade, and religious devotion. The culture here is a unique blend of Han Chinese influences, aboriginal traditions, and the local Penghu identity, creating a vibrant tapestry that reflects the island’s history and its people’s resilience.
Religious and Spiritual Life : At the heart of Magong’s cultural landscape is the worship of Mazu, the sea goddess, who is revered as the protector of fishermen and sailors. The Magong Mazu Temple, the oldest in Taiwan, dating back to 1604, is a central pilgrimage site for devotees across Taiwan and beyond. The temple is not just a religious center but a cultural hub where rituals, festivals, and community gatherings take place. The annual Mazu Pilgrimage, where believers carry the goddess's statue through the city streets, is a significant event that draws thousands of participants.
Architecture and Historical Sites : The architectural style in Magong is a reflection of its historical roots, with many buildings showcasing traditional Fujianese and southern Chinese designs. The Central Street Historic District is a perfect example, where old shop houses with intricate carvings and tiled roofs line the narrow streets. This district also houses the Four-eyed Well, a rare historical artifact linked to the early settlers' ingenuity. The well, named for its four openings, was designed to prevent saltwater intrusion into the freshwater supply, a critical innovation for an island community.
Festivals and Celebrations : Magong and the broader Penghu Islands are famous for their festivals, with the Penghu Fireworks Festival being the most prominent. Held every summer, this festival lights up the night sky with spectacular firework displays over the harbor, accompanied by music and cultural performances. The festival is a modern expression of Magong’s deep connection to the sea and its ongoing celebration of life on the islands.
Local Crafts and Arts :The local crafts of Magong include traditional Penghu pottery, which is known for its distinctive patterns and sea-inspired designs. Weaving and embroidery are also practiced, often seen in the traditional costumes worn during festivals. These crafts reflect the resourcefulness and creativity of the islanders, who have historically relied on the limited resources available to them.
Daily Life and Modern Influence : Despite its rich historical roots, Magong is not frozen in time. The city has embraced modernity while preserving its cultural heritage. The local markets buzz with activity as vendors sell fresh seafood, traditional snacks, and modern Taiwanese street food. The influence of mainland Taiwan is evident, yet the city retains a slower, more relaxed pace compared to the urban centers of the island.