Popular Transport in Liuqiu

To travel from Kaohsiung to Xiaoliuqiu, it's divided into two main stages. First, from Kaohsiung city, you can take public transport, a shared taxi, or drive yourself to Donggang Ferry Terminal, which takes about 40-60 minutes. Public transport has relatively fixed schedules, while shared taxis offer more flexibility and speed. Upon arrival at Donggang Ferry Terminal, you will then transfer to a ferry to Xiaoliuqiu. The ferry ride takes approximately 25-30 minutes. It is recommended to plan your transportation from Kaohsiung to Donggang Ferry Terminal in advance and allow ample time.

Renting a scooter on Xiaoliuqiu Island is very convenient, with many rental shops available near the ferry terminal. Scooters are the most popular and practical mode of transport on the island, perfect for freely exploring various attractions. When renting, be sure to carry a valid driver's license and thoroughly inspect the vehicle. As some island roads are narrow and have inclines, please ride safely and follow traffic rules. It is advisable to book a scooter in advance during peak tourist seasons.

To check ferry schedules between Xiaoliuqiu and the mainland, you can visit the official websites of the ferry companies or call them for the most up-to-date information. Ferries from Donggang to Xiaoliuqiu are operated by both public and private companies, with slightly different travel times. In addition to purchasing tickets on-site, you can also buy them through online platforms or as part of package tours. Considering the large crowds during peak tourist seasons, it is recommended to book your ferry tickets in advance to ensure a smooth trip. Booking through KKday offers Chinese customer service support and flexible cancellation, eliminating language communication issues.

During peak tourist seasons, especially public holidays and summer vacations, traffic on Xiaoliuqiu Island can indeed become congested. The main roads and areas around popular attractions may experience traffic jams, and there are often queues at the ferry boarding points. To avoid affecting your travel experience, it's recommended to avoid traveling during peak hours or to arrive early and beat the crowds. Alternatively, consider non-scooter options like electric bicycles, or park your scooter and explore some areas on foot to reduce the hassle of finding parking.

The choice between renting a scooter or an electric bike depends on your personal needs. Scooters are faster and have better range, making them suitable for licensed riders who are comfortable with them, allowing for quicker island exploration. Electric bikes do not require a license, are simple to operate, and are environmentally friendly and quiet, making them a good option for travelers without a scooter license or those who prefer a slower pace. Electric bikes have limited range and may require planning for charging or battery swaps. It's recommended to assess your own situation, your need for speed, and whether you hold a license to choose the most suitable vehicle.

Currently, the primary and only way to reach Xiaoliuqiu Island is by ferry. Xiaoliuqiu is an outlying island with no airport and no bridge connecting it to mainland Taiwan. Therefore, all travelers must take a ferry from Donggang Ferry Terminal to get there. Regardless of your departure city in mainland Taiwan, you must first reach Donggang and then transfer to a ferry. Hence, when planning your trip to Xiaoliuqiu, be sure to factor in ferry travel times and schedules.

Transportation between mainland Taiwan and Xiaoliuqiu is a two-stage process. The first stage is traveling from your city to Donggang Ferry Terminal in Pingtung: you can take the High-Speed Rail (HSR) to Kaohsiung and then transfer to a shuttle bus or taxi; or take a direct bus to Donggang; if you are driving, you can park your car in the parking lots around Donggang Ferry Terminal. The second stage is taking a ferry from Donggang Ferry Terminal to Xiaoliuqiu, which takes about 25-30 minutes. The return journey follows the same route back to the mainland.

Xiaoliuqiu Island's public transportation system is not as comprehensive as in cities; it mainly relies on rented scooters or electric bikes. Although there are island-circling buses or fixed-route shuttle buses, their schedules are relatively infrequent and routes are fixed, lacking flexibility, which might be inconvenient for travelers wanting to explore various attractions freely. Therefore, to deeply experience every corner of Xiaoliuqiu, most travelers still opt for renting scooters, electric bikes, or joining guided tours for greater mobility convenience.

Ferry tickets between Donggang Ferry Terminal and Xiaoliuqiu can be booked in various ways. Besides on-site purchases, you can also book through the ferry company's official website, travel agencies, or online travel platforms. When planning your trip, it's advisable to confirm the type of ferry company (public or private) and the ferry schedule in advance. Consider purchasing your tickets early during peak tourist seasons or holidays to avoid on-site queues or missing out. Booking through KKday offers Chinese customer service support and flexible cancellation, eliminating language communication issues.

For exploring Xiaoliuqiu Island, the most recommended and commonly used modes of transportation are scooters or electric bikes. Both offer high maneuverability, allowing travelers to freely move between attractions, beaches, and alleyways, deeply experiencing the local charm of Xiaoliuqiu. Rentals are convenient and relatively economical. Considering that some island roads are winding or sloped, please ride with caution. Walking or taking a taxi is suitable for short distances or for those who are unable to ride.