Dashi Longcheng Scenic Area | Penghu Attraction

Dashi Longcheng is located at the southern tip of Qimei Island and is the largest basalt wave-cut scenery area on the island. 'Dashi' (Big Lion) refers to a massive basalt reef shaped like a crouching lion; 'Longcheng' (Dragon Court) refers to a broad basalt wave-cut platform that winds seaward from the reef coast. At low tide the platform is exposed over a large area, with a textured surface that undulates like dragon scales — the signature geological scenic spot on Qimei Island and the grand finale of any island loop itinerary.

Highlights of Dashi Longcheng Scenic Area

The Longcheng platform is a layered rock bed formed when basalt lava cooled, subsequently eroded by waves into its present horizontal surface. At low tide the platform is extensive and visitors can walk on it, observing the cross-sections of basalt columnar joints and parallel layering up close. The edges of the platform have been carved by strong surf into irregular pits and sea channel landforms; on sunny days, the blue-green seawater at the reef coast creates a strong visual color contrast. The Dashi reef is several meters tall; viewed from different angles in different lighting, the lion's posture looks slightly different.

The tide pools left on the Longcheng platform at low tide are larger than those at the northern tip of Qimei and offer a diverse ecology to observe — including remnant coral, reef algae, and sea urchin colonies. Be aware of the force of waves striking the platform edges: even when the sea looks calm, surge waves at the reef edge can be dangerous. Do not stand at the platform's edge to take photos. From October to the following March during the northeast monsoon season, wave conditions are stronger; the Longcheng platform scenery is dramatic but safety distances must be even more conservative.

How to make the most of it

🦁

Find the best angle for DashiThe Dashi reef's lion shape can only be clearly identified from a specific angle. Walk slowly along the scenic area's trail, comparing views until you find the standing position that best shows the outline.

🧭

Walk the Longcheng platform at low tideAt low tide the Longcheng platform can be walked on, allowing close observation of the cross-sections of basalt columnar joints — but wear non-slip footwear and avoid the dangerous surf zone at the very edge of the platform.

🌊

Dramatic waves in autumn and winterFrom October to the following March during the northeast monsoon, the surf is powerful and the wave spray at the Longcheng edge can reach impressive heights — but at this time you must maintain a sufficient safe distance from the surf zone.

🔬

Close-up observation of geological texturesThe basalt grain, jointing faces, and bedding planes on the platform surface are clearly distinguishable up close — a rare outdoor field observation opportunity for geology enthusiasts. Do not collect rock specimens.

Practical information

Getting there & timing

Qimei Township requires a ferry to reach; check the Penghu County Government or shipping company's official website for the latest schedules. Off-season sailings are infrequent, so pay special attention to the last return departure time.
Dashi Longcheng is at the southern end of Zhonghe Village. After renting a vehicle on the island, follow the signs along the island loop road — about 15 minutes. There is a simple parking area at the scenic site.

Nearby connections

Dashi Longcheng is at the southern tip of Qimei Island and can serve as the final stop on an island loop itinerary, paired with Qimei Martyrs' Tomb (Nangang Village) for a southern-end combined route — the two are about 5 minutes apart by vehicle.
The Twin-Heart Stone Weir (Dingxi Village) is in the north of the island; plan a full-day island loop with the north in the morning and the south in the afternoon.

Sources: compiled from context facts and Penghu County Government tourism information. Photos pending Dio's on-site photography.

🗺️ View on the map ← All Penghu attractions