"Taiwan’s Greek Island" Getaway: Relax in Pure White Lighthouses & Breathtaking Ocean Views

Reported and photographed by Chen Hanyin / Dongyin, Matsu

Winding through maze-like alleys of white-walled lanes, gaze at the endless seascape where sky and ocean blur into one. Located at Taiwan’s northernmost border, the Dongyin Lighthouse on Matsu Islands boasts sea-meets-sky views, a century-old white building, and stone-paved paths. The romantic scenery creates an illusion of being in Greece’s Aegean Sea, with stunning views around every corner that take your breath away.

▲ The Dongyin Lighthouse, also known as the Dongyong Lighthouse, has a history of 100 years.

▲ The breathtaking seascape is right next to the cliffs.

▲ The white architecture paired with the endless ocean is the perfect summer scenery.

▲ Quaint corners full of exotic charm feel like Greece.

The Dongyin Lighthouse is situated at Taiwan’s northernmost point, built in the 18th-century British architectural style. It has guided ships home for 113 years. The century-old wooden doors and windows are still well-preserved. The winding white walls complement the blue sky and sea, but its construction was no easy feat. In the past, workers transported each brick and tile from ships anchored by the cliffs, so future generations could enjoy this magnificent view.

▲ The Dongyin Lighthouse is the northernmost lighthouse in Taiwan.

▲ Every corner of white walls and stone steps is incredibly photogenic.

The pure white walls are the result of hard work by laborers. The lighthouse is repainted once a year for a month, making every turn or sit on the low white walls feel like you’re in a foreign land like Greece. Additionally, it’s a great spot for watching sunrises, stargazing, and viewing the Milky Way. The journey to the lighthouse offers no shelter, with the scorching sun burning your skin, yet your heart feels vast and peaceful. The charm of the outlying islands can only be truly felt by visiting in person.

▲ The white walls are repainted every six months.

▲ The indistinguishable boundary between sky and ocean creates an awe-inspiring view.

▲ Perfect for capturing a series of summer-exclusive photos.

▲ Even the island’s trash bins and railings are designed in the cute shape of the Dongyin Lighthouse.

After descending the lighthouse, there's another must-visit stunning spot called "Lie Nu Yi Keng" (Maiden’s Sacrifice Pit). The wonders of nature will leave you in awe. As you walk up the steps toward the viewing platform, those afraid of heights might feel their legs go weak. The nearly 100-meter-high natural sea cliff is majestic and grand. Legend has it that during the late Qing Dynasty, a fisherman was killed by pirates, and his wife fled here before leaping off the cliff. The waves crash violently against the gorge walls, telling the story of the maiden’s loyalty and determination.

▲ From afar, it looks like the head of a giant dragon.

▲ Lie Nu Yi Keng offers a view of the magnificent eroded sea cliffs.

Dongyin Island Lighthouse
Address: No. 169, Lehua Village, Dongyin Township, Lienchiang County
＊Uni Air [Uni Holidays] package: Matsu Card? Heroic Hostel free & easy trip starting from NT$5,399.