Penghu Archipelago Cycling Tour: A Complete 3-Day, 2-Night Penghu Cycling Itinerary

Introduction

Located in the center of the Taiwan Strait, the Penghu Archipelago consists of 90 islands of various sizes. The unique coastal landforms shaped by basalt geology make it one of the few places on Earth that can be described as having an “alien landscape.” For cyclists, Penghu offers Taiwan’s most unique riding environment—flat terrain, rich island character, and ocean views everywhere. As long as you manage the direction of the northeast monsoon in summer, you can enjoy an unforgettable island cycling journey.

Three days and two nights is the shortest itinerary for planning a Penghu cycling trip, allowing you to connect the main islands including the main island, Zhongtun, and Xiyu (Yuweng Island). Summer (May to September) is Penghu’s peak tourist season, but be aware of the strong northeast monsoon; although winter winds are fierce, there are fewer tourists, lower prices, and you can quietly enjoy Penghu’s most pristine appearance.

3-Day Itinerary Plan

Day 1: Xiyu Island Loop

Departing from Magong City, cross the Penghu Great Bridge onto Zhongtun Island, then continue to Xiyu. Penghu’s most prominent landmark—the Penghu Great Bridge—spans across Baisha and Xiyu islands, with a bridge length of nearly 2.5 km. Riding across the bridge with the open sea on all sides is one of the most unforgettable moments of cycling in Penghu.

Tongliang Banyan: In Tongliang Village on Baisha Island, a giant banyan tree over 300 years old supports a canopy covering the entire temple square with its massive aerial roots—the most awe-inspiring natural wonder in Penghu.

Erkan Settlement: Erkan in Xiyu is the best-preserved traditional Minnan stone-house settlement, with white walls, black tiles, and narrow slate alleys that feel like stepping back in time to a Qing Dynasty fishing village.

Xiyu West Fort: Built during the Qing Dynasty, Xiyu West Fort commands a vantage point overlooking the Taiwan Strait and is Penghu’s most magnificent historical site.

Day 2: North Sea Islands Exploration

Take a ferry from Tongliang Pier to Jibei Island—the most exciting one-day island excursion in Penghu’s North Sea. Jibei Sandbar is Taiwan’s largest tombolo, with snow-white fine sand extending into the sea and crystal-clear waters displaying multiple shades of blue—Penghu’s most photogenic spot.

After spending half a day on Jibei Island, return to Magong in the evening. Day 2 ends with resupply and rest in Magong City.

Day 3: South Sea Highlights and Magong Old Town

On the final day, ride through Fenggui, Shanshui, and Chikan on the southern outskirts of Magong—areas that are among the most scenic on Penghu’s main island yet relatively less crowded with tourists.

Fenggui Cave: A basalt cave eroded by ocean waves; at high tide, seawater surges into the cave with a thunderous roar—the finest example of Penghu’s geological wonders.
Shanshui Beach: The most beautiful family beach on Penghu’s main island, with fine white sand and clear water. Afternoon sunlight makes it the golden hour for photography.

Practical Information

• Getting There: Flights from Taiwan’s main island to Penghu take about 30 minutes (flights available from Taipei/Taichung/Chiayi/Tainan/Kaohsiung). Bicycle transport must be arranged with the airline in advance.
• Bicycle Rental: Several rental shops in Magong City offer city bikes, road bikes, and electric-assist bikes, with daily rates around NT$200–600.
• Wind Warning: Penghu is known for strong winds. Pay attention to wind direction while riding; on crosswind sections, be sure to reduce speed to avoid being blown off course.
• Sun Protection: Penghu has very little shade and intense summer sunlight. Sunscreen, arm sleeves, and sunglasses are absolutely essential.
• Accommodation: Magong City offers the widest selection of lodging; it’s recommended to use Magong as your base.

Conclusion

Cycling in Penghu is a completely different experience from riding on Taiwan’s main island. There are no majestic mountains here, but there is the purity of an island; no urban hustle and bustle, but the simplicity of fishing villages. Basalt coastlines, sandbar islands, ancient banyan trees and stone houses—every turn is a landscape painting that needs no post-processing. Fly to Penghu with your bike, let the sea breeze of the Taiwan Strait tousle your hair, and let the sun of the Chrysanthemum Island tan you into your most contented self.

Related Reading

• Penghu Archipelago Cycling Trip: A Special Experience of Island Charm and Ocean Scenery
• Penghu Cycling Guide: Flat Island Riding and Fishing Village Culture
• Penghu Cycling Tour: Island Riding Features of the Great Bridge and Fishing Village Routes
• Penghu Cycling Circuit: A Romantic Sea Experience of Island Hopping