Daqiu Island Introduction
Searching for Formosan Sika Deer: Matsu's Little Nara Dakou Island, known as "Sika Deer Island," is located to the north of Beigan and adjacent to Gaodeng Island. To visit, you will need to take an inter-island ferry. Once home to residents and military forces, the island had over 300 inhabitants at its peak. However, due to changing times and migration of the population to Beigan and Nangan, Dakou Island has become uninhabited and is now the only uninhabited island in Matsu that can be explored. There is a 400-500 meter long ecological trail on Dakou Island, where you can see various adorable Formosan Sika deer and military facilities. In addition to the deer, there is also a chance to see flying terns during the summer. If you visit Matsu, make sure to take a trip to Dakou Island for its unique ecological environment, which is unforgettable. Encountering Formosan Sika Deer in Matsu In 1980, Taipei's Yuanshan Zoo gifted 5 Formosan Sika deer to the Lienchiang County Government. After core rehabilitation and evaluation, they were transported to Dakou Island for release. Decades later, the deer have adapted to the island's environment, roaming freely and beginning to reproduce. Today, the deer population on the island has increased several times since their initial release. Experience the Uninhabited Island of Dakou Exclusive Cuisine: Free-range Centipede Chicken In addition to meeting the Formosan Sika deer, visitors to Dakou Island can choose to stay in renovated traditional Fujian-style lodgings or experience the exclusive dish—roasted centipede chicken. The free-range chickens raised here thrive on the plentiful grass and moist environment of Dakou Island, which provides a nutritious source of centipedes and earthworms. Roasted centipede chicken is a delicacy available only by reservation on Dakou Island! Note: For accommodation and delicious experiences, it is recommended to consult Dakou Island Eco Homestay before your trip.
