How to get to Magong

Located on the picturesque Penghu archipelago, Magong is the administrative and cultural hub of this island part of Taiwan. The city is renowned for its ancient temples, colonial architecture, and the relaxed atmosphere of a seaside resort, where travelers arrive to enjoy the beaches and fresh seafood. Reaching this "pearl of the strait" requires crossing the water expanse: either by taking a quick flight or embarking on a sea journey by ferry.

The fastest and most popular way to reach the islands is to fly into Magong Airport (MZG). This bustling aviation hub handles over 2.3 million passengers annually, ensuring regular and reliable connections with major cities on the main island.

If direct tickets are unavailable, a convenient option is to fly to nearby major cities such as Chiayi or Tainan. The airports in these cities are located less than 100 km away in a straight line and serve as excellent transit points for transferring to local flights or shuttles to ferry crossings.

Since Magong is located on an island in the Taiwan Strait, there is absolutely no railway service or train stations here. Trains are an excellent way to reach port cities on the mainland before the maritime leg of the journey.

Travelers often choose high-speed trains to stations in the cities of Chiayi or Tainan. From these railway hubs, one can easily take a taxi or shuttle bus to the nearest port to continue the journey by ferry.

A bus trip to Magong is always a combined "bus + ferry" route, as the city is separated from the mainland by the sea. One of the most sought-after options is the route via Chiayi: tourists travel by bus to the city and then transfer to a shuttle to Budai Port for the crossing.

A similar scheme applies to routes via Tainan. Although the distance on the map is about 192 km, the majority of the time will be spent traveling to the coast and waiting for maritime transport. This is an economical choice for those who wish to enjoy the views on the way to the crossing.

Traveling by car to Magong requires careful planning, as it involves using a cargo-passenger ferry. Drivers usually head towards the port in the Tainan region or look for a crossing closer to the city of Chiayi; however, it is worth checking the schedule of vessels transporting vehicles in advance.

Many tourists prefer to drive to the port, leave their car in a mainland parking lot, and rent transport once on the island. This eliminates the complexities of maritime logistics and saves time that would otherwise be spent on loading and the lengthy crossing.

To ensure your trip to Magong is perfect, it is worth considering the climatic and cultural features of the Penghu archipelago. Here are some proven tips for a comfortable stay:

1. Wind protection. The archipelago is known for its strong winds, especially in the off-season. Be sure to bring a windbreaker and a tight-fitting hat, even if it is sunny outside.
2. Scooter rental. This is the most convenient way to move around the island. To rent one, you will definitely need an international driving permit of the appropriate category (A).
3. Cash currency. The official currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Cards are not accepted everywhere, so always carry cash for purchases at night markets and small cafes.
4. Sun protection. The sun here is very active, and the reflection from the water intensifies the effect. Use cream with high SPF, wear sunglasses, and stay hydrated.
5. Language nuance. The main language is Chinese (Mandarin), and locals also speak the Hokkien dialect. Not everyone speaks English, so downloading an offline translator is recommended.
6. Visiting temples. There are many sanctuaries in the city. Enter with respect, remove your shoes if required, and observe a modest dress code (shoulders and knees covered).
7. Seasonality. Avoid traveling during the typhoon season (usually summer and early autumn), as ferries and flights may be cancelled.
8. Local delicacy. Be sure to try the cactus ice cream—it is the signature treat of the local gastronomy.

Following these simple recommendations will help you avoid minor difficulties and allow you to focus entirely on the beauty of the island landscapes and the hospitality of the locals.