Taiwan: Offshore Islands

Taiwan: Offshore Islands
Taiwan is located along the southeast coast of the Asian continent, on the fault line where the Euro-Asian and Philippine continental plates meet. This unique geographic location and frequent seismic activity, not only created an extremely diversified topography and natural environment on Taiwan, but also resulted in the diverse characters of its off-shore islands. Main offshore islands include Penghu, Ludao, Lanyu, Kinmen, Matzu (Matsu), Turtle Island and Xiao Liuqiu (Liuqiu) as their locations, topographical characteristics, and human activities differ; each has its own unique scenery and culture. Therefore, each island offers something different, satisfying the various needs of visitors, whether these have a natural, historical, or cultural nature, or simply consist of sightseeing, snorkeling, or sport fishing.

 Penghu

Penghu is Taiwan's largest offshore island and is situated between China and Taiwan. Located in the south-east of Taiwan Strait, Penghu has a combined coastline that stretches more than 320 kilometers and includes 90 small islands. Each season has its own particular scenery, and rich natural and cultural resources are found here. The landscape here is characterized by basaltic rocks, coral reefs, marine erosions, and beaches, while the fishing culture and migratory birds add an extra dimension to the picture.

Ludao

Ludao, also named Green Island, is located some 33 kilometers off the coast of Taitung in eastern Taiwan, and is a volcanic island where winds blow and waters eat away at the rocks all year round, creating a beautiful and diverse coast.

Lanyu

Lanyu, or Orchid Island, is situated off the southeastern coast of Taiwan and, like Ludao, its neighbor to the north, was raised from the sea level by the accumulation of volcanic lava. It has a moist and rainy climate, and its mountain areas (which occupy most of the island) are covered with dense rain forests that are filled with a great variety of plant and animal life. Coral reefs decorate the surrounding seas, and the Japan Current which flows past brings in large numbers of fish. This makes Lanyu a paradise for fishermen and skin divers. The island is inhabited mainly by Tau tribes' people, the most primitive of Taiwan's indigenous people, who still keep much of their traditional culture and lifestyle. Their traditional stone houses are building mostly underground to avoid extremes of temperature as well as the ravages of typhoons, and their Flying Fish and Boat Launching festivals are seen nowhere else on earth. In addition to savoring the beautiful island scenery, during a trip of Lanyu you can also enjoy a glimpse into the fascinating Tau culture.


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