Island Cycling in Taiwan: Route Highlights of Penghu, Kinmen, and Green Island

Introduction

Beyond the main island of Taiwan, numerous outlying islands with distinct characters are scattered across the sea, each worth exploring with a bicycle brought aboard a ferry. The Penghu archipelago is renowned for its basalt landscapes and blue waters, Kinmen is celebrated for its Hokkien culture and wartime history, and Green Island is a peculiar place known for diving and submarine hot springs. The cycling routes on these three islands vary in difficulty, but all allow riders to deeply experience the unique charm of the outlying islands within just a few days.

Comparison of Cycling Routes on the Three Islands

Penghu: A Landscape Ride Through Basalt and the跨海大橋

Penghu’s island-cycling route starts in Magong City, passing the Penghu跨海大橋 (connecting Baisha Island and Xiyu), the Xiyu Lighthouse, and Qimei Island (which requires a separate ferry). Penghu’s basalt formations are the most extensive in Taiwan, with整齐的六角柱狀玄武岩 forming coastal cliffs that are truly breathtaking, especially in the intertidal zone at Kuibishan, where a gravel path connecting to Zhongtun appears at low tide, known as “Penghu’s Moses Crossing.”

The strong winds in Penghu are a major challenge for cycling; it is recommended to set off in the morning to avoid the afternoon southwest monsoon. Supply points are concentrated in Magong City, with few shops along the route, so it is advisable to stock up on water before departing.

• Must-Visit Spots: 跨海大橋, Xiyu West Fort, Tongliang Banyan Tree, Kuibishan
• Accommodation: Magong City offers various hotels, some of which provide bicycle rentals

Kinmen: A Dual Experience of War Relics and Hokkien Culture

Kinmen’s cycling route blends history, culture, and natural scenery. Starting from Jincheng, you can circle the main island of Kinmen, passing through Zhaishan Tunnel (a WWII underground waterway), Shanwai Artillery Position, Jinhu Reservoir, Qionglin Settlement (Kinmen’s most complete traditional Hokkien architectural complex), and the remains of the Beishan Broadcasting Station.

Kinmen’s roads are relatively flat, but some areas still contain uncleared landmines; be sure to ride only on established roads and do not enter areas marked as off-limits. The Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor Factory is a must-visit, offering tours and tastings—a small sip of kaoliang after a ride adds a unique flavor.

• Must-Visit Spots: Zhaishan Tunnel, Qionglin Settlement, Mashan Observation Post, Kinmen National Park
• Local Treats: Peanut brittle, kaoliang liquor cake, beef jerky

Green Island: A Small Island Ride Surrounded by Coral Reefs

Green Island is compact, with a ring road of about 20 kilometers that can be completed in a single day. The road conditions are good, though there are a few steeper sections. The island’s coastal scenery is spectacular, with coral reefs clearly visible. The Zhaori Hot Spring is one of the few seawater hot springs located by the ocean in the world, and soaking in it after a ride is an irreplaceable pleasure.

• Must-Visit Spots: Zhaori Hot Spring, Green Island Lighthouse, Youzihu Rocky Reef, Human Rights Culture Park
• Notes: Green Island is extremely crowded with tourists in summer, and scooter noise can disrupt the riding experience; it is recommended to set off early in the morning

Practical Tips

• Bicycle Regulations: When taking ferries to the outlying islands, be sure to confirm each ferry company’s bicycle-carrying rules; some may charge extra fees
• Rental Options: If bringing your own bicycle is inconvenient, all three islands offer rental services for electric bicycles or regular bikes
• Timing Your Trip: Penghu’s summer tourist peak brings large crowds; spring offers a better riding experience

Conclusion

Penghu’s geological wonders, Kinmen’s historical depth, and Green Island’s pristine ocean represent three distinctly different personalities among Taiwan’s outlying islands. Taking your bicycle offshore, you will feel a sense of island freedom that cannot be experienced on the main island. Taiwan’s cycling world extends far beyond the roads of the main island.

Related Reading

• Cycling Taiwan’s Outlying Islands: Bicycle Travelogues of Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu
• Penghu Archipelago Bicycle Travel: A Special Experience of Island Charm and Ocean Views
• Cycling Taiwan’s Outlying Islands: One-Day Route Planning for Penghu, Green Island, and Orchid Island
• Penghu Bicycle Travel: Island Charm and Routes Across Various Townships