The Spectacular "Two Basalt Formations in Penghu" – Giant Walls Reflected in Pools Like a Dreamlike Backdrop

▲ After the rain, puddles form on the low grassy ground ahead, creating a poetic scene no matter how you shoot it. (Photo provided by reporter Cao Yuehua)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

The towering basalt formations on Xiyu Island were shaped when ancient lava erupted and rapidly cooled upon contact with seawater, forming hexagonal columns. This is one of Penghu’s must-see natural wonders. ETNEWS Travel has selected two columnar basalt sites in Penghu County. Standing before these towering walls, humans feel as small as ants. If you’re lucky, rainwater may collect in pools in front, reflecting the majestic stone walls. No matter the angle, the scenery looks almost unreal.

▲ The basalt at Dayeye has an earthy yellow hue, and its neat patterns make for a striking photo. (Photo provided by reporter Cao Yuehua)

1. Columnar Basalt at Dayeye
Compared to the generally darker basalt found elsewhere in Penghu, the basalt at Dayeye has an earthy yellow color, mainly because it was exposed more recently. After rain the day before, puddles form on the low grassy ground ahead, and the next day, under clear skies, the water reflects the blue sky, white clouds, and the entire wall of clearly defined basalt columns. No matter how you shoot it, the background looks like it’s been digitally added—every casual shot turns out incredibly picturesque.

After visiting the columnar basalt at Dayeye, you can head to the nearby San Shi Bi Basalt, which, though not as grand in scale, offers a quieter, more serene atmosphere due to fewer visitors.

Columnar Basalt at Dayeye
Location: No. 10, Chidong Village, Xiyu Township, Penghu County

▲ The columnar basalt at Chixi may not be as famous or tall as that at Dayeye, but it extends for hundreds of meters and features even more diverse shapes. (Photo provided by a netizen. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)shenskyshootProvided, please do not take photos or reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.

2. Columnar Basalt at Chixi
Also known as the Chixi Basalt Waterfall, it’s said that when it rains, water flows down the columnar rocks like a series of cascading waterfalls. Though not as famous or tall as the basalt at Dayeye, it spans hundreds of meters and features even more diverse shapes, making it quite unique.

▲ The columnar basalt at Chixi, also called the Chixi Basalt Waterfall, is said to resemble waterfalls when rainwater flows down the columnar rocks. (Photo provided by a netizen. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)doren0418Provided, please do not take photos or reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.

The columnar basalt at Chixi is located near the coast, on the site of an abandoned longline fish farm. At high tide, you’ll see grid-like stone pillars filled with water, attracting photographers and visitors who love scenic spots. Be cautious—the uneven rocks require careful footing, especially when taking photos.

▲ Grid-like stone pillars filled with water attract photographers and visitors who love scenic spots. (Photo provided by a netizen. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)zero1stopProvided, please do not take photos or reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.

Columnar Basalt at Chixi
Location: Chixi Village, Xiyu Township, Penghu County

※ Visitors are reminded that Penghu’s basalt landscapes are designated as protected natural monuments under the Penghu National Scenic Area Administration and the Cultural Heritage Preservation Act. Climbing, carving, or leaving any unauthorized items is prohibited, with fines of up to NT$500,000 for violations. Please respect the rules.