The azure lake water flows through a sea-eroded arch — Penghu has a hidden “Azure Window” scenic beauty.

▲ The must-see “Whale Cave” on Xiaomen Islet in Penghu. (Photo / Authorized by netizen Hsu Cheng-chang, no screenshots please)

By reporter Tsai Wen-jun / Comprehensive report

No need to go abroad — the world-renowned “Azure Window” scenery can be seen right here in Penghu! Located on Xiaomen Islet in Penghu, the “Whale Cave” was formed over the years by the constant pounding and erosion of seawater, creating a sea-eroded arch. Its shape resembles the head of a whale emerging from the water, hence its name. It has become the most famous attraction on Xiaomen Islet.

The “Azure Window” landscape in the Mediterranean stands as high as 100 meters and was formed over thousands of years by the relentless scouring of limestone by sea waves, creating a sea-eroded arch. Viewed from afar, it looks as if the azure Mediterranean seascape is locked within a giant window, hence its name. However, in early March this year, it collapsed under the force of a storm, turning this beautiful sight into a thing of the past and leaving many people deeply saddened.

▲ The Azure Window in Malta collapsed in March this year. (Photo / From Wikimedia Commons)

But travelers who haven’t seen it yet don’t need to worry. On Xiaomen Islet in Penghu, the “Whale Cave” is a sea-eroded arch formed by the continuous erosion of basalt sea cliffs by waves. Though not as tall as the Mediterranean Azure Window, its sea-eroded cave shape resembling a whale emerging from the water, coupled with the deep blue seawater and reflections of the blue sky and sunlight, creates a unique Azure Window landscape in the area that visitors can enjoy without going abroad.

▲ The Whale Cave at dusk. (Photo / Screenshot from the official website of Penghu National Scenic Area Administration)

In addition to the Whale Cave, although Xiaomen Islet covers an area of only 0.5 square kilometers, it boasts rich geological and topographical landscapes and is a microcosm of the Penghu Archipelago. It can be described as a natural outdoor geological classroom. If you want to admire some of the world’s most beautiful bays and Azure Windows, don’t miss visiting Penghu this year.