Taiwan's Outlying Islands | How to Play in Taiwan

Sky blue! Unpolluted ocean

Seeing blue skies and the sea in Hong Kong is a luxury; blue skies are only seen between skyscrapers. In Taiwan's outlying islands, however, there are sea views everywhere, and with unpolluted oceans, you can enjoy incredibly clear seascapes without spending a penny. The outlying islands also have almost no skyscrapers, so you'll discover just how vast the sky can be.

Affordable and delicious seafood

Where there is sea, there is seafood. The outlying islands surrounded by the sea have an abundance of seafood. Tuna and sakura shrimp from Xiaoliuqiu, squid, pufferfish and oysters from Penghu, rock bream and Buddha's hand from Matsu, tuna from Green Island, oysters from Kinmen, flying fish from Lanyu, etc. We eat only what is in season, only what is fresh, and only what is cheap.

Tip: Lanyu still maintains its traditional maritime culture; visitors should respect local customs.

warm and hospitable islanders

Don't be fooled by the tanned skin and seemingly unapproachable appearance of people from Taiwan's outlying islands. Beneath their sun-kissed complexions lie warm hospitality, straightforwardness, and a genuine sense of human kindness. You often hear the saying, "The most beautiful scenery in Taiwan is its people," and you'll truly understand the meaning of that statement on the outlying islands.

Good public security

"You can tell at a glance. The bikes without the keys are ridden by locals." I saw this photo on a friend's Facebook page on Taiwan's outlying islands a while ago. Locals on these islands don't lock their cars, leave their doors open, or leave their phones in the same place when they return home hours after leaving them in restaurants. So, friends traveling alone to Taiwan's outlying islands don't need to worry.

Simple and peaceful

Taiwan's outlying islands have not been overdeveloped and still preserve a simple, peaceful lifestyle unseen in the city. Living in the city for too long can sometimes make us forget the original purpose of life. Taking a slow pace on the outlying islands can purify the soul and give yourself a healing trip.

Unique flora and fauna ecology

The climate, topography, and soil of the outlying islands all influence the growth environment of plants and animals, creating a unique ecosystem for each island. Kinmen otters, Green Island angelfish, Orchid Island tropical rainforest scops owls, Matsu sika deer, Penghu migratory birds, and Xiaoliuqiu green loggerhead turtles are just some of the many species that have been preserved on the outlying islands, making them incredibly diverse and rich in biodiversity.

Natural wonders full of surprises

The outlying islands boast diverse topography and environments, featuring many natural wonders not found even on the main island of Taiwan. Examples include the sea caves and basalt formations in Penghu Geopark, the uniquely shaped coral rocks on Xiaoliuqiu Island (Taiwan's only coral island), and Green Island, home to one of the world's three underwater hot springs.

Taiwan's unique island history and culture

The temple traditions of Xiaoliuqiu, the military relics of Kinmen and Matsu, the customs of the Tao people of Lanyu, the White Terror prison culture of Green Island, and the calamari architecture of Penghu—in addition to the culture of the main island of Taiwan, the outlying islands have unique maritime cultures in their lives, economy, language, beliefs, architecture, and customs.

Many accommodation options

Whether you prefer stunning ocean views, European castles, Mediterranean blue and white cottages, Balinese charm, century-old houses, or budget-friendly backpacker hostels, there are plenty of accommodation options on the outlying islands.