Xiji Island

Penghu Attractions

西吉嶼

Xiji Island is located about 4.5 kilometers west of Dongji Island and is part of the "Nansha Four Islands National Park." It features basalt sea cliffs on the west and north sides, characterized by distinct columnar joints that stretch for hundreds of meters, creating a spectacular landscape. It has also been designated as the "South China Sea Basalt Natural Reserve." The residents completely relocated in 1978, and it is currently an uninhabited island. Landing on the island requires prior application.

Address：Xiji Islet, Wang-an Township, Penghu County

Xiji Island Introduction

Xiji Island is located about 4.5 kilometers west of Dongji Island, and both are part of the "South Four Islands National Park." The island features basalt cliffs on its western and northern sides, marked by prominent columnar joints that extend for hundreds of meters, making for a spectacular sight. It is also designated as part of the "South China Sea Basalt Natural Reserve." All residents were relocated in 1978, and it is now an uninhabited island, with access requiring prior application. Although many buildings are in disrepair, the structure of the settlements is still clearly visible, including the ruins of the religious center Xiji Temple and four stone towers built to ward off evil spirits. Additionally, the farmhouse constructed with basalt on the northern side of the village was intended to withstand the northeast monsoon. Although the village has long been abandoned, former residents of Xiji Village gather annually during major festivals like Dragon Boat Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival to return to the village for a few days, introducing the next generation to their heritage. The most well-known attraction on Xiji Island is the sea cave located on the northwest side of the island, colloquially known as "Zao Long" by locals because it resembles a stove opening. The surrounding seawater within the cave appears sapphire blue due to sunlight refraction, and it is also referred to as the "Blue Cave." The eastern and southern sides of the island are predominantly rocky coastal terrain, where the northeastern intertidal zone features rocks eroded by seawater, forming hollows that create pot-hole formations or expand into "tidal pools," both of which are also noteworthy geological sights of Xiji Island.