The Tongliang Ancient Banyan stands before Bao’an Temple in Tongliang Village, Baisha Township. Over 300 years old, it is the largest natural canopy tree in Penghu. According to local tradition, a merchant ship was wrecked in the Houmen waters near Tongliang during the Kangxi era of the Qing dynasty. A sapling drifted ashore with the tide; villagers planted it in front of the temple, where it has stood for centuries. Its 95 aerial roots hang down like columns to form a natural canopy covering 660 square metres, with the trunk supported by wooden frames and metal braces. In summer, locals and visitors gather beneath the banyan to cool off, drink tea, and play chess. It has long been a cultural landmark of Tongliang Village and a notable rest point along the Penghu North Ring bus route.
What to See
The tree’s most striking feature is its 95 thick aerial roots, hanging like curtains to create a broad green canopy. At 660 square metres of coverage, this shade is particularly valuable under Penghu’s summer sun — and for generations, the spot has served as a shared gathering place for residents seeking relief from the heat. Bao’an Temple, situated beneath the tree, is also worth a visit. The temple enshrines Mazu, Su Wang Ye, and Su Fu Wang Ye, and its architecture is typical of the southern Fujian temple style. Together, the banyan and the temple form the religious and cultural heart of Tongliang Village.
Getting There and Nearby
Bus routes: Take the Tongliang Line (routes 22A–22I) or the Wai-an Line (routes 21/21A) and alight at the Tongliang Banyan Terminal stop, from where the tree is a short walk. Both routes are operated by Penghu County Public Bus and Ferry Management Office; departure times vary by direction, so check the timetable before you travel.
By car: From central Magong, head west along County Road 203 via Dongwei, Zhongzheng, and Yong’an Bridge into Baisha Township, passing through Jiangmei, Gangzijian, Chikan, and Houliao villages. Tongliang Village sits at the western end of Baisha, just before the Penghu Bay Bridge. Parking is available in the open area in front of the temple or within the village.
Nearby attractions: Bao’an Temple (beneath the tree, 0 minutes on foot); Gangzijian intertidal ecological area (about 15 minutes on foot); Chikan Seven Beauties Tomb in Chikan Village (about 30 minutes on foot); Penghu Bay Bridge, Suogang, and Jiangmei — other North Ring villages accessible by continuing east along County Road 203. There are few convenience stores in the Tongliang area, so it is advisable to stock up on water and snacks in Magong or Jiangmei beforehand.
Hours and Location
- Opening hours: Open year-round, 24 hours
- Location: Tongliang Village, Baisha Township, Penghu County