The 'whistling' sound is caused by air being compressed and expelled through narrow rock vents as waves strike the cave walls.
The basalt columns found here were formed by the rapid cooling of lava flows millions of years ago.
The name 'Fongguei' translates literally to 'Bellows' in reference to the sound produced by the sea caves.
The site is located at the southern tip of the main island of Penghu.
The man-made observation structure is locally referred to as the 'UFO lookout' due to its elevated, disc-like architecture.
Fongguei Cave is a geological coastal site in Penghu, Taiwan, defined by its natural basalt columns and subterranean sea erosions. When incoming tides force air through narrow, tube-like fissures in the rock, the site produces a distinctive whistling or bellows-like sound often referred to as 'Fongguei listening to the waves.' The area features a man-made white UFO-shaped observation deck that provides elevated views of the basalt formations and the surrounding Taiwan Strait. The geological formations are part of the Penghu Columnar Basalt Nature Reserve. The cave structure consists of multiple sea-eroded trenches and natural arches formed by volcanic cooling processes. Visitors can observe the rhythmic water sprays as waves surge through the narrow apertures during high tide. The site remains a primary geological attraction within the Penghu National Scenic Area.
The elevated UFO-shaped observation deck for a wide-angle view of the basalt coastline.
Visit during high tide to maximize the intensity of the audible whistling sounds.
Walk the wooden boardwalk path to view the coastline from different angles safely.
Bring sun protection as the site has minimal natural shade on the coastal rock platforms.
Do not attempt to climb onto the slippery basalt edges near the water, as wave surges can be sudden and dangerous.
Stay within the designated railings and boardwalks, as the basalt rocks can be slippery and hazardous.
