An offshore island near the mouth of Kaoping River, Liuqiu is known for its coral composition and fishing lifestyle. Towering cliffs, small sandy beaches and mysterious caves create an alluring getaway in remote windswept villages.
Things to do in Liuqiu
Most activities centre on Baisa Port, the main arrival point for boats and ferries. You can make arrangements at the port for glass-bottom boat tours and scuba diving expeditions. Swim and sunbathe at Chung Au Beach, then rent a bike or scooter to explore the entire island.
Gear up for snorkelling in colourful coves near Vase Rock. Guides will point out enormous sea turtles and almost 200 species of fish and coral in natural habitats. You might even spot flying fish, sperm whales and sharks from afar.
Sea terraces, caves and coral cliffs on the island beckon with legends of shipwrecks, murder and mayhem. Visit Beauty Cave to hear tales of the lost maiden surviving on wild fruits and spring water in Beauty Cave, before creeping through the reportedly haunted Back Dwarf Cave. Don’t miss the carvings at the cave entrance that reveal its ghostly past.
Pick up a map at the visitor centre to visit some of the 38 temples in Liuqiu. Pay homage to the three deities Zhu Wang Ye, Chi Wang Ye and Wu Wang Ye at Sanlung Temple near Benfu Village. The Buddhist Bodhisattva of Mercy, Guanyin, is revered at Piyun Temple, particularly at festivals in his honour.
Getting around Liuqiu
The island lies less than 18 nautical kilometres from the mainland of Taiwan, accessed by a 30-minute boat or ferry ride. Upon arrival, you can rent a bicycle or scooter or hire a private driver. Kaohsiung International Airport is about 20 minutes from the mainland harbour.