Chishan Islet Introduction
When it comes to the basalt landscape of Penghu, one cannot miss Jishan Islet. Known as the "Huangshan of the East Sea," Jishan Islet is located 4 kilometers northeast of Beiliao Village in Huxi Township. It consists of two islets, Big Jishan and Small Jishan, which are connected during low tide, allowing for walkable passage between them. Both islets are basalt mesas, with clear columnar jointing around the surrounding sea cliffs. Big Jishan has multiple sea erosion channels and sea caves, while a shallow reef lies to the southeast. Small Jishan features tightly arranged hexagonal columnar basalt, resembling a pipe organ, which is how the islet got its English name. The basalt here often contains green olivine, a mineral representing materials from deep underground, brought up by the rising basalt lava. This unique landscape is designated as a basalt natural reserve, and landing on the island requires prior application. In winter, Jishan Islet, like Dingtou Islet, produces abundant nori seaweed. Since the Qing Dynasty, harvesting has been shared among the communities of Guoye, Nanliao, and Honglu, serving as a primary source of income and referred to as "black gold" by the locals. In spring and summer, the islet becomes a breeding ground for terns, primarily the Crested Tern, and even hosts the rare migratory bird known as the "mythical bird," the Black-naped Tern. You can take a cruise to observe different bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
