Qingwan Basalt Introduction
The Penghu Islands are primarily composed of basalt, formed from lava repeatedly erupting from cracks in the Earth's surface and cooling down. The earliest volcanic lava dates back approximately 18 million years, with a tranquil eruption occurring around that time and volcanic activity ceasing about 8 million years ago. The basalt has created a unique square mountain terrain, surrounded by steep cliffs, which have developed various distinctive landforms over time due to weathering, wind erosion, and marine erosion. Additionally, the rapid cooling and contraction of the lava create tension within the rock, leading to the formation of multi-angular columnar fractures known as columnar joints. These fractures exhibit straight, curved, or various inclined directions, becoming the most characteristic aspect of the Penghu basalt landscape. In Magong, on the left side of County Road 201 towards Fenggui, one can observe the towering Qingshan columnar basalt standing alongside the road. The basalt in Penghu, due to prolonged weathering and erosion, presents different appearances, and Qingshan is one of the most striking examples of columnar basalt. In Qingshan, visitors can not only admire the magnificent and imposing standalone basalt but also enjoy the coastal scenery. 【Recommended stay time】 1 hour.
Qingwan Basalt
