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Offshore archipelago governed by the Republic of China (Taiwan)
Photo: Sleepingstar, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Matsu (馬祖 Mā-cū in Mindong, Mǎzǔ in Mandarin) is the name for a group of islands off China's southern coast, approximately 160 km (100 miles) NW from the island of Taiwan. The island falls under the jurisdiction of the Taiwan-based Republic of China (ROC), and along with Kinmen, forms the front lines between the ROC and the People's Republic of China (PRC).
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Near the Matsu Temple in Matsu Village is a huge statue of the goddess. Follow directions for Matsu Park and drive up, up, up. Great views of China on a clear day. A bit far from the harbor, but impossible to miss once you get close.
Fantastic village with stone houses build against the mountain on the sea. Can spend hours wandering. A highlight is the village's picturesque temple, featuring an unusual bright red facade and views of Beigan Island in the distance.
By plane
Matsu is served by Beigan and Nangan Airport with domestic flights from Taipei and other cities in Taiwan but mainly from Taipei.
By boat
Nangan's Fuaogang (Fuao Harbour) is the central terminal for all inter-island ferries. Main routes departing from Nangan include:
By scooter
"Scooters" (mopeds) are considered the best way of transportation around the islands.
On foot
The islands are relatively small, but very hilly.
By taxi
Taxi services are available on the larger islands, including Dongyin. There are seemingly no taxi meter. Fares are thus negotiated before leaving.
By bicycle
Only some visitor centers offer bicycle rental (as of 2026). Information online is limited but that of Nangan (near the Beihai tunnel) is confirmed to rent bikes as of April 2026.
By bus
Regular public bus service is provided on Beigan and Nangan by Lienchiang County Bus during daylight hours. Bus routes and ETA can be found here. Google Maps seems relatively updated.
By car
There is probably nowhere to rent a car, but it is possible to take one on the ferry from Taiwan if arranged in advance.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Matsu (Nangan) · Regional · LZN
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