Hit the Road to Siyu's Stunning Scenery: a Must-Visit Gem in Penghu Island
Breathtaking Siyu: A Captivating Portrait of Beauty and Grandeur
By Ya Boy Yo
If you're all about soaking up breathtaking scenery and immersing yourself in the rich culture and history of a place, then don't overlook Siyu Township, Penghu Island's westernmost township that's connected to Magong City by road. This off-the-beaten-path destination offers a laid-back lifestyle, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences that'll charm even the most seasoned travelers.
Sure, the total area of Penghu may be modest, and exploring every nook and cranny may take several weeks. But Siyu alone deserves at least a couple of days to truly appreciate its attractions. With beaches, architecture, museums, mouthwatering snacks, breathtaking sunrises, and sunsets, Siyu is the perfect spot for anyone looking for a diverse and memorable travel experience.
Though it's just 5km from Magong by sea, no ferry service exists, and you'll have to make the journey via a lengthy and scenic route around the main island of Penghu. The drive to Siyu takes around an hour, making it feel like a secluded destination well worth the trip. The adventure begins after you cross the Penghu Great Bridge – a 2.5-km-long marvel that connects you to Siyu Township.
*Jhuwan Village ( mistake):Adorable Peanuts and Island Vibes
When you arrive in Siyu, you'll find yourself greeted by the whimsical Jhuwan Peanut Statue, a lovable blob of a peanut lounging on a bench and sporting sunglasses and a parasol, waving to tourists as they roll through. Jhuwan Village produces the region's prized pale-coated peanuts, harvested in June and July. If you visit during summer, don't miss a chance to snack on these local delicacies from local vendors lining the roadsides.
*Little Doorway, Little Island (Siaomenyu):Basalt Columns and Animatronic Dinosaurs
Just a stone's throw away from Jhuwan Village, you'll find the Siaomenyu intersection. Turn right, and follow the road until you cross a short bridge, taking you to a charming island that showcases Penghu's volcanic origins. The island is dotted with incredible basalt columns paired with a geological exploration hall that offers exhibits detailing the formation of the nearby land and sea and the fossils of colossal Ice Age beasts discovered in the Penghu Trench.
The jewel of the island is an animatronic dinosaur exhibit – a bizarre yet captivating spectacle that indulges younger visitors' fascination with prehistoric creatures. Despite highly questionable exhibition accuracy, since Taiwan and Penghu did not exist when these dinosaurs roamed the earth, the diversion is worth the modest NT$30 admission fee, which is half-price for students and seniors. If you're traveling sans kiddos, there's plenty more to explore here, including easygoing hikes and close-up views of the basalt formations.
*In the Heart of Siyu:Basalt, Beaches, and Culture
Next stop: Dachih Village's fishing harbor, where the coastline presents a skyline of towering basalt columns, an impressive sight that leaves an unforgettable impression. To explore the columns up close, start walking along the coastline or follow the concrete road that leads north from the harbor into the cemetery, then take the left path near the fork.
Just beyond the fishermans' village of Sichih lies Erkan Village, home of the iconic Daguoye Coral Rock Group. The photogenic basalt formation offers a small reflective pool beneath it that adds an element of visual interest. But if you've already admired the basalt formations in Dachih or Sichih, you might want to save yourself from a redundant visit. Instead, explore Erkan's historic village center, a mix of restored and semi-dilapidated coral homes dating back to Penghu's traditional building methods. For a tasty treat, don't miss their signature peanut-filled glutinous rice cakes, crafted on-site daily.
*The South:Serene Sunsets and Seaside Relaxation
As you make your way to the southern tip of Siyu, take in the picturesque ocean views. Make sure to check out the Siyu East Fort, West Fort, and Yuwengdao Lighthouse, all of which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding sea.
Travelers seeking a picturesque beach can stop at the Neian Recreation Area, famous for its soft sand, shallow sea floor, and stunning ocean views. An unspoiled green slope along the background provides a serene atmosphere, isolating you from the distractions of modern civilization. And the best part? The less crowded shoreline lets you feel like you're all alone in your own little corner of paradise.
So there you have it – Siyu, a hidden gem in Penghu Island, waiting to welcome travelers with its overwhelming natural beauty and unique cultural experiences. Don't forget to pack your cameras and curiosity, as Siyu has much to offer those brave enough to venture off the beaten path.
- The quaint Jhuwan Village in Siyu Township, Penghu Island, is home to the adorable Peanut Statue, offering a charming welcome to visitors with its waving parasol.
- At the Siaomenyu intersection in Siyu, a short drive from Jhuwan Village, you'll find an animatronic dinosaur exhibit, showcasing colossal Ice Age creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago, despite the somewhat anachronistic setting.
- Dachih Village's fishing harbor in Siyu Township presents a breathtaking skyline of towering basalt columns and offers opportunities for explorations up close, with trails leading to the unique coral rock formations and traditional coral homes.
- As you travel to the southern tip of Siyu, don't miss the chance to relax on the soft sand of Neian Recreation Area, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and capture mesmerizing sunset views over the sea.
