Taiwan’s Version of Nara: Sika Deer Watching on Daqiu Island

A seasonal highlight in Matsu tourism, “Sika Deer Watching on Daqiu Island” runs from June to September each year, when boats are available to take visitors to the island. Once ashore, you can admire the adorable and friendly sika deer, who are unafraid of people and can be fed with grass or interacted with. You can even visit the “Daqiu Island Eco Park” and book a tasting of the island’s specialty—Centipede Chicken, free-range chickens raised by the island’s sole inhabitant, Mr. Hu. These chickens roam freely and feed on centipedes and earthworms, resulting in meat that is exceptionally tender and elastic, with crispy skin when roasted.

As you walk along the trails of Daqiu Island, in addition to spotting deer, you’ll see remnants of military structures and impressive coastal erosion landforms. While enjoying your deer-spotting adventure, remember to respect and protect the animals. Sika deer are naturally timid and easily frightened—please avoid chasing them or making loud noises. Startled deer may suddenly bolt and cause injury, so please stay safe and be gentle.

A close-up photograph of a Sika Deer on Daqiu Island.

Sika Deer roaming on Daqiu Island.