Things To Do
in Nangan

Whole local reef fish steamed with ginger and scallion — widely available at seaside eateries and family restaurants.

Must-Try!

Prepared with small local oysters; try it at market stalls or small diners for a briny, comforting taste of the islands.

Various preparations of locally harvested seaweed — in soups, salads or braised with soy — commonly sold at markets and seafood restaurants.

Small‑batch fermented beverages found at local shops or offered in family eateries; best sampled in moderation.

Small morning market selling fresh seafood, vegetables and snack stalls — best for breakfast bites and buying ingredients or dried seaweed.

Occasional evening stalls near the dock selling grilled seafood, fried snacks and local sweets — seasonal and variable, but good for street food sampling.

Temples and Mazu rituals are central to local life — dress modestly, be respectful during ceremonies, avoid loud behavior and ask before photographing people engaged in worship.

Polite greetings and a few Mandarin phrases go a long way. A nod or small bow is appreciated; business is often conducted through warm, personal interaction.

Many military relics and some sites remain sensitive — obey signage, do not enter restricted zones and ask local authorities if unsure.

Public waste facilities are limited on small islands — carry out what you carry in when visiting remote spots and separate recyclables where possible.

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan or the Matsu islands; small gestures of appreciation are fine but not expected. For exceptional service at private tours or guides, a modest tip is appreciated but optional.

Cash (New Taiwan Dollars) is king on Nangan — many small restaurants, markets and guesthouses accept only cash. ATMs are limited; bring sufficient cash or withdraw in Taipei before traveling. Credit cards and mobile payments work at larger hotels and select restaurants but should not be relied upon everywhere.

Mild temperatures and blooming coastal plants make spring pleasant for hiking and photography; occasional rainy days but generally comfortable for exploration.

Warm, humid and often windy with the highest chance of typhoons between July and September; seas can be rough and some boat services may be canceled, so monitor forecasts and have flexible plans.

Often the most pleasant season with drier weather, clearer skies and comfortable temperatures — excellent for outdoor activities and island hopping.

Mild but windy winters with more overcast days and occasional cold snaps; swimming is less common but coastal scenery remains dramatic and fewer tourists mean quieter visits.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited because the cuisine is seafood‑centric; use the Mandarin term '我吃素 (wǒ chī sù)' and ask if dishes contain fish sauce, shrimp paste or dried seafood. Large hotels may prepare vegetarian meals with advance notice.

Seafood is ubiquitous; explicitly state allergies ('我对海鲜过敏 wǒ duì hǎixiān guòmǐn') and check with the cook. Cross‑contamination is possible in small kitchens.