This black-and-white striped lighthouse is the landmark of Mudou Island. Located about 3.8 nautical miles north of Jibei Islet, Mudouyu Lighthouse got its name because its shape resembles a "line marker," a tool used by carpenters to create straight lines. Initially called "Line Marker Islet" (Line Marker here sounds like "Modou" in Chinese,) the name was later changed to Mudou Island due to the homophonic connection. Mudou Island, located at the northernmost tip of the Penghu archipelago, is the northernmost inhabited island, and as a result, it is also known as "Beidao," or North Island. Because of this, Mudouyu Lighthouse was originally referred to as the "Beidao Lighthouse."
  
The lighthouse was constructed in response to the dangerous underwater terrain surrounding it. The Penghu archipelago is home to many swift currents and among the locals, there is a saying: "1st Daqiao, 2nd Houchmen, 3rd Western Boundary Current." The "1st Daqiao" refers to Daqiao Islet, located to the north of Mudou Island. Surrounded by hidden reefs and turbulent waters, it forms a dangerous sea area together with nearby Erciao Islet(二磽嶼). This treacherous region has frequently caused maritime accidents. To address this, the Japanese government, which governed Taiwan and the Penghu Islands at the time, built the lighthouse to guide ships through these hazardous waters.
  
To prevent corrosion from the salty sea air, the lighthouse's base was made of bricks, while the tower itself is constructed from cast iron, a material resistant to rust. The iconic black-and-white stripes make it stand out as a prominent warning. Surrounding the lighthouse are the dormitories and offices for the staff. While the interior is not open to the public, just admiring the majestic structure from the outside makes the visit worthwhile.

Source: Penghu National Scenic Area Administration Court and Penghu County Government Tourism Department