Nangan Island combines history, culture and beautiful coastal scenery. Part of the Matsu archipelago, the island is the largest and most populated island in the group. Base yourself in one of the lively settlements and spend a few days visiting golden-sand beaches, getting lost in colourful markets and exploring charming towns and villages.
Things to do in Nangan Township
The small village of Magang is set on a picturesque harbour surrounded by green hillsides. Here you’ll find Matsu Temple, one of the most sacred Taoist sites in Taiwan. Admire the intricate architecture and climb the staircase up to a larger-than-life statue of the Chinese sea goddess, Mazu. Magang also boasts some of the best restaurants on the island.
Jinsha is one of the most picturesque villages on the island, with many of the historic stone buildings reimagined as atmospheric guesthouses. Narrow laneways wind through the village and take you down to a sandy beach. An enormous tsunami wall protects the village shoreline and is decorated with colourful murals.
At low tide you can walk out to the Beihai Tunnel, a 700-metre-long passage carved into the hillsides of Nangan Island. The sea tunnel was completed in 1971 and was used to hide the island’s boats from foreign attack. Evening boat rides operate between April and September and offer a chance to see the famous “blue tears” glow created by bioluminescent phytoplankton.
Getting around Nangan Township
Scooters and motorbikes are a good way to explore Nangan Island at your own pace. You can also rent a car, hire a private driver or use local buses. Nangan Island is easy to access by ferry, with overnight boats run between Keelung Harbor and Nangan, via Dongyin Island. Ferries run between Beigan Baisha Harbor and Nangan Island in 20 minutes. Flights operate between Taipei Songshan Airport and Nangan Island daily.