Penghu Islands, Archipelago in Taiwan Strait.
The Penghu Islands form an archipelago of ninety small landmasses scattered between Taiwan's western coast and Fujian Province. Coral reefs and basalt formations define the coastlines, while the flat topography is crossed by fields and traditional villages.
The archipelago received a formal administrative structure under Mongol rule in the 13th century, with fortifications and officials installed. Later dynasties and powers used the islands as a strategic base in the western Pacific region.
The population maintains strong maritime traditions with festivals centered around fishing activities, reflecting their ancestral connections to southern Fujian Province.
Flights and ferries bring travelers over from Taiwan, with wind and waves potentially affecting crossing times. Some islands require boat access only, so plan flexibly and check weather forecasts before moving around.
Black columns of basalt stand along the coast and rise directly from the sea, shaped by ancient volcanic processes. The marine park protects these formations and the surrounding waters from damage.
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