Erkan Village: A 300 Year Old Traditional Village in Penghu County, Taiwan
Erkan Village: A Guide to the Hidden Gem of Penghu County in Taiwan
Erkan Village, also known as Erkan Historical Village, is a unique cultural attraction in Taiwan that preserves nearly 300 years of Southern Min culture. Located on Siyu Island of Penghu County, the village has been cut off from the rest of Taiwan for quite some time, making it an isolated and fascinating living museum for visitors. The village is a perfect destination for those who are interested in learning about Taiwan’s history and culture.
Erkan Village
As you explore Erkan Village, you will be transported back in time to a simpler way of life. The village is home to around 50 traditional homes, many of which feature round-ridged, red-tile roofs and coral stone walls. The houses are polka-dotted with irregularities that peek through the whitewash, adding to the village’s unique charm. The village is also home to friendly locals who are always happy to share their stories and traditions with visitors.
Erkan Village is a protected area for traditional villages by Penghu County Government. The village is a picturesque fishing village tucked away in the heart of Penghu, and it is a perfect place to immerse yourself in a unique blend of old and new. Whether you’re interested in learning about Taiwan’s history, and culture, or just want to explore a beautiful and charming village, Erkan Village is a must-visit destination.
Overview of Erkan Village
If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience in Taiwan, Erkan Village in Penghu County should be on your list. This traditional village is known for its well-preserved ancient houses and rich history. Erkan Village is located in the Xiyu Township of Penghu County, just a short distance from Daguoye Basalt.
Erkan Village in Penghu
Erkan Village is over 300 years old and was settled by early migrants from Kinmen and other offshore islands to the northwest at the mouth of Xiamen Bay in mainland China during the late years of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). The village is named after the first settler, Chen Erkan, who was a member of the Chen family.
The architecture of Erkan Village is a unique blend of southern Fujian and Taiwanese styles. The houses are made of coral stone and red brick tiles and feature intricate wooden carvings. Walking through the narrow streets of Erkan Village, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Penghu County Government has listed Erkan Village as a protected area for traditional villages. It’s a small fishing village with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the village’s ancient houses, temples, and shrines. The village also has a small museum where you can learn more about the history of Erkan Village.
If you’re interested in traditional Taiwanese culture, Erkan Village is a must-visit destination. The village’s well-preserved ancient houses, unique architecture, and rich history make it a fascinating place to explore.
Street marker in Erkan Village By Toadboat – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0 , cc
Historical Significance
Erkan Village is a historical site on Xiyu Island in Penghu, Taiwan. The village is known for its aged houses, similar in style to those found in south Fujian Province across the Taiwan Strait and Batanes in the northernmost tip of the Philippines. Most of the residents in Erkan Village are surnamed Chen, as they have common ancestors who left south Fujian for Penghu to make a living in the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).
Qing Dynasty Influence
Erkan Village was established during the Qing Dynasty and has since become a significant cultural attraction in Penghu. During this time, the village was a bustling center of commerce, with many businessmen and merchants coming to the area to trade. The village’s architecture and way of life reflect the influence of the Qing Dynasty.
Surnamed Chen Legacy
The Chen family has been an integral part of Erkan Village since its establishment. The surnamed Chen legacy is still visible in the village today, with many of the residents still bearing the same name. The family’s influence can also be seen in the village’s architecture, with many of the houses belonging to the Chen family.
Ancient Houses
Erkan Village is home to many ancient houses that have been well-preserved over the years. These houses are a testament to the village’s rich history and cultural significance. The houses are built in the traditional southern Fujian style, focusing on symmetry and simplicity. The houses’ design also takes into account the area’s climate, with features such as courtyards and covered walkways.
In conclusion, Erkan Village’s historical significance lies in its connection to the Qing Dynasty, the surnamed Chen legacy, and the ancient houses that have been well-preserved over the years. The village is a testament to Penghu’s rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and architecture.
Geographical Features
Erkan Village is a unique place in Penghu County, Taiwan, with a rich history and fascinating geographical features. Here are some of the most notable ones:
Basalt and Beaches
One of the most striking features of Erkan Village is the nearby Daguoye Basalt, a natural wonder that attracts many visitors. This geological formation is the result of volcanic activity that occurred millions of years ago, and it’s characterized by its hexagonal columns that resemble a giant honeycomb.
The Daguoye Basalt is not only a sight to behold, but it’s also the perfect place for a relaxing day at the beach. The basalt formations create natural pools and coves where you can swim, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun. Some of the most popular spots include Erkan Beach, Daguoye Beach, and Shanshui Beach.
Local Corallite
Another unique feature of Erkan Village is the local corallite, a type of limestone that is abundant in the area. This rock is made up of fossilized coral and other marine organisms, and it’s known for its durability and beauty. In fact, many of the traditional houses in Erkan Village are made of corallite, giving the village a distinctive look and feel.
If you’re interested in learning more about corallite and its uses, you can visit the Erkan Corallite Museum, which showcases various corallite artifacts and explains the history and culture of the area.
Tourism in Erkan Village
Erkan Village is a unique place in Taiwan that preserves nearly 300 years of Southern Min culture. Isolated and cut off from the rest of Taiwan for quite some time on Siyu Island of Penghu County, the village is a living museum for visitors. In this section, you will learn about the tourist attractions, local cuisine, and water sports that make Erkan Village a popular tourist destination.
Centuries Old Houses made from Coral Stones
Tourist Attractions
Erkan Historical Village is a protected area for traditional villages by Penghu County Government. The village is a living museum of traditional Southern Min culture with its old-style houses, ancestral halls, and temples. The village is also famous for its stone houses, which are built with coral stones, and its ancient wells, which are still in use today.
Erkan Community is a great place to walk in and around. The village is well worth a visit, especially in winter when the tourists are all hiding. Erkan is like the small villages on Kinmen, and there are only a few villages on Matsu which could arguably better it.
Local Cuisine
Erkan Village is famous for its seafood, especially fresh fish and shrimp. The seafood is caught locally and cooked in the traditional Southern Min style, which is simple and flavorful. The most popular seafood dishes in Erkan Village are fried shrimp, steamed fish, and grilled squid.
In addition to seafood, Erkan Village is also known for its traditional snacks, such as peanut candy, sun cakes, and sweet potato cakes. These snacks are made with local ingredients and have a unique flavor you won’t find anywhere else.
Water Sports
Erkan Village is great for water sports, such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The village is surrounded by crystal clear waters, and the coral reefs are home to various marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and octopuses.
Several water sports centers in Erkan Village offer equipment rental, training, and guided tours. In conclusion, Erkan Village is a great destination for tourists who want to experience traditional Southern Min culture, sample local cuisine, and enjoy water sports in a beautiful setting.
Accommodations in Erkan Village
If you’re planning a trip to Erkan Village, you’ll be pleased to know that a few great accommodation options are available. Here are two of the best:
Discovery Hotel
Located at No.168, Tonghe Rd, the Discovery Hotel is a 4-star family-friendly hotel that offers a range of amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Some of the highlights include:
Free breakfast
Free WiFi
Free Parking
Fitness center
Helpful staff
Comfy rooms
With a rating of 9.2 out of 10 based on 421 reviews, this hotel is a popular choice for visitors to Erkan Village.
MF Hotel Penghu
MF Hotel Penghu
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Another great option is the MF Hotel Penghu at 2 Minchuan Rd. This 3.5-star hotel is also family-friendly and offers a range of amenities, including:
Free breakfast
Garden
Flat-screen TV
Free WiFi
Free Parking
With a rating of 8.6 out of 10 based on 363 reviews, this hotel is a solid choice for those looking for comfortable and affordable accommodation in Erkan Village.
Both hotels offer a great base to explore all that Erkan Village offers. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, you will surely enjoy your stay at one of these top-notch accommodations.
Local Specialties and Shops
Erkan Village is known for its unique local specialties and souvenir shops. As you stroll through the village, you will come across many small shops that offer a variety of products, ranging from handmade crafts to delicious local snacks.
Souvenirs from Erkan Traditional Village
One of the must-try local specialties is peanut candy. You can find this sweet treat in many of the shops in the village. Made from locally sourced peanuts, the candy has a rich and nutty flavor that will satisfy your sweet tooth. You can also find other peanut-based products, such as peanut oil and peanut butter.
Souvenir Shop in Erkan Village
A souvenir shop in Erkan Village
If you are looking for a refreshing drink, try the prickly pear juice. This drink is in shop #40, known for its prickly pear products. The juice is made from fresh prickly pears and has a sweet and tangy flavor that is perfect for a hot summer day.
Almond Tea
Another popular local specialty is the cactus sorbet in shop #23. Made from fresh cactus fruit, the sorbet has a unique flavor: sweet and tart. It is a perfect dessert after a savory meal.
For those who love tofu, shop #38 serves bowls of tofu tea with peanuts and beans. This drink uniquely blends tofu, peanuts, and beans, creating a creamy and nutty flavor. It is a perfect drink for a midday snack.
