Travel Guide to Lanyu: A Popular Summer Destination

1⃣️ Preparation Before Travel Best Travel Time: From April to October is the peak season with sunny weather ideal for diving and snorkeling. However, summer often brings typhoons, so keep an eye on weather forecasts. Flying Fish Season (March to June) is the best time for cultural experiences, where you can witness the traditional fishing activities of the Tao tribe. Winter (November to March) has rough seas, and some ferry services may be suspended, but it’s a quieter time for a peaceful trip. 2⃣️ Transportation: By Airplane: Take a small 19-seater plane operated by Daily Air from Taitung Fengnian Airport. The flight takes about 25 minutes and requires advance booking (weather-dependent). By Ferry: Taitung Fugang Harbor → Lanyu (about 2-2.5 hours), serviced by companies like Green Island Star and Golden Star. Houbi Lake Harbor (Kenting) → Lanyu (about 2 hours), with more frequent trips during peak season. On the Island: Rent an electric scooter (about 500-600 TWD/day) or a motorcycle (requires a license). A full island loop is approximately 37 kilometers. 3⃣️ Accommodation Booking: Book homestays in advance, especially during peak season. It’s recommended to stay in Dongqing Village or Langdao Village for convenient sunrise views and cultural experiences. 4⃣️ Must-Visit Attractions and Activities Natural Scenery: Dongqing Bay: The best spot for sunrise, where you can see traditional canoes against the morning glow. Experience canoeing (about 300-500 TWD/person) or snorkeling. Yeyin Underground Houses: Traditional semi-subterranean Tao tribe architecture. Visits must be guided by locals (respect the culture and do not enter without permission). Grassland at the Southern Tip: A highland grassland at the southernmost point of Lanyu, offering excellent sunset views and a distant view of Xiaolanyu. 5⃣️ Cultural Experiences 🐟 Flying Fish Culture: Visit flying fish drying sites and taste flying fish dishes (such as flying fish rice balls and dried flying fish). From March to June, observe the Tao tribe’s traditional nighttime flying fish fishing rituals (respect taboos, such as not touching the canoes). Lanyu Lighthouse: The highest point on the island, offering panoramic views of the coastline, perfect for photography. 6⃣️ Food Recommendations Local Snacks: Flying Fish Dishes: Must-try items include dried flying fish and flying fish roe sausages (recommended at "Wu E Bu Zuo" restaurant in Dongqing Village). Taro Ice Cream: A sweet treat made from the Tao tribe’s traditional crop. Restaurant Recommendations: "Thirty-Three" (famous for its delicious egg pancakes). 7⃣️ Important Notes Respect the Culture: The Tao tribe has many taboos (e.g., do not photograph elders without permission, do not touch the canoes). Follow local guidance. Seek permission before visiting underground houses. Safety Tips: Some sections of the island’s coastal roads are narrow, so ride carefully. Bring sunscreen for summer and windproof clothing for winter (a windbreaker is recommended). 8⃣️ Suggested Itinerary (3 Days, 2 Nights) Day 1: Arrival → Rent a vehicle for island tour (Kaiyuan Harbor → Grassland at the Southern Tip → Dragon Head Rock → Langdao Village) → Dongqing Bay sunset. Day 2: Dongqing sunrise → Canoe experience → Yeyin Underground Houses → Hiking at Datiantang → Nighttime stargazing. Day 3: Snorkeling or diving → Shopping for souvenirs → Departure. The charm of Lanyu lies in its pristine and tranquil environment. Slow down to truly appreciate the island’s cultural and natural beauty. If you have more time, consider extending your stay to immerse yourself in the Tao tribe’s leisurely lifestyle.