The walls are built using 'xuan-wu' (basalt) and 'hu-shi' (coral rock) to withstand strong monsoon winds.
The village was the first in Taiwan to be designated as a traditional settlement conservation area in 2001.
Many of the house interiors feature traditional 'jiao-zhi' pottery decorations and wood-carved 'chui-hua' rafters.
The architecture follows a classic 'three-section' or 'si-he-yuan' layout typical of Fujian-style homes.
The Chen family fortune was largely built through traditional medicine trade between Penghu and mainland China.
The village is actively managed to support the preservation of local customs rather than acting as a static museum.
Traditional ink calligraphy can often be found inscribed on the stone walls, reflecting the family's scholarly values.
The Erkan Historical House, belonging to the Chen family, is a remarkably preserved example of traditional Southern Min architecture located within the Erkan Village settlement of Xiyu Township. The structures are primarily constructed from local Penghu coral stone and basalt, materials chosen for their resilience against the region's harsh salt-laden winds. The site represents a government-designated conservation area that revitalized the village, preventing the architectural decay typical of abandoned ancestral homes. Visitors can observe elaborate wood carvings, traditional clay-tile roofs, and intricate stone wall masonry techniques. The site functions as a living museum, where residents continue to maintain traditional cultural practices. Most structures retain their original courtyard layouts, designed for natural ventilation and communal living. The village serves as a window into the historical economic prosperity of Penghu's maritime trade.
The narrow alleyway between the Chen Family house and the neighboring wall, featuring high coral stone walls.
Walk the narrow alleys between houses to see the stone masonry details not visible from the main paths.
Sample the local apricot kernel tea and handmade brown sugar cakes sold by residents in the village.
Bring sun protection as the village has limited shade in the open courtyard areas.
Avoid rushing through the village; the experience is meant to be slow-paced to appreciate the craftsmanship.
Respect private property signs as some houses are still occupied by descendants; do not climb on historical stone walls.
