Penghu hosts Taiwan’s only ‘island hopping’ marathon

澎湖舉辦全台唯一的 “跨海馬拉松”

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Penghu Cross-Sea Marathon took place on Saturday, drawing 3,400 runners to a course spanning bridges, beaches, and islands across the Penghu archipelago, including Magong, Wangan, and General Islet.

The race began at 6:30 a.m. at Magong Guanyin Pavilion and was presided over by Tourism Administration Director-General Chen Yu-hsiu (陳玉秀) and other local dignitaries. Chen described it as Taiwan’s only “island hopping” road race, noting its mix of scenic views and regional cuisine, per CNA.

Chen said she first learned about the marathon eight years ago and joined for the first time this year, jogging one section of the course. She added she plans to participate in the full 42-kilometer relay next year.

This year’s event featured several categories: a traditional 42-kilometer marathon with 646 participants, a 42-kilometer relay, a 21-kilometer race with 1,257 runners, an 11-kilometer race, and a 5-kilometer fun run. Despite hazy weather and strong winds, participants persevered, including 101 international runners from 19 countries such as the US, Macau, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, and South Africa.

Along the route, 10 food stations offered more than 100 local specialties, allowing runners to enjoy both the island scenery and Penghu’s famous delicacies.

To promote winter tourism and boost local spending, the Penghu County Government launched the “2025 Winter Tourism Penghu Consumption Voucher” campaign, running from Jan. 1–31. Non-Penghu residents staying at licensed accommodations for at least one night can receive NT$500 (US$16.25) in vouchers by presenting a boarding pass or ferry ticket, identification, and proof of stay.

A total of 75,000 vouchers will be distributed, with 20 participating hotels allowing travelers to collect vouchers directly at check-in. Each recipient will also receive a scratch card offering more than 4,000 prizes.

Local merchants are further promoting “voucher amplification rewards,” allowing visitors to redeem vouchers for up to triple their value. The county government said the initiative aims to highlight Penghu’s winter charm, strengthen cooperation between local businesses, and stimulate the island’s tourism and hospitality industries.