Analysis of Key Factors Influencing Penghu Tourism Development using the Delphi Method and AHP

As Taiwan's largest offshore island, Penghu boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, with a development history that predates Taiwan by 400 years. The island’s unique climate, geographical environment, and natural resources have shaped its distinctive landscape. In the past, Penghu’s economy mainly relied on fisheries. To promote the transformation of traditional industries and boost local economic growth, the Penghu County Government and the Penghu National Scenic Area Administration have leveraged the local basalt geology, island ecology, and cultural characteristics to promote tourism. They have also organized various festivals and events to attract visitors. This study employs the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method, drawing on relevant literature and expert opinions, to categorize the factors affecting Penghu’s tourism development into four primary levels: "Transportation," "Accommodation," "Tourism Resources," and "Tour Guide Services and Facilities," which are further subdivided into 15 secondary criteria. In terms of transportation, the criteria include: "Air Transport between Taiwan and Penghu," "Sea Transport between Taiwan and Penghu," and "Inter-island Transportation." For accommodation, the criteria cover: "Hotels," "Unique Bed and Breakfasts," and "Local Cuisine." Tourism resources consist of: "Ecological Landscapes," "Traditional Settlement Architecture," "Festivals and Events," "Industrial Tourism," and "Military Heritage." Lastly, tour guide services focus on: "Interpretation Skills," "Professional Knowledge," "Service Attitude," and "Guide Facilities." The results indicate that the priority ranking of the primary levels is: 1. Transportation, 2. Tourism Resources, 3. Accommodation, and 4. Tour Guide Services. Among the secondary criteria, the top five most important factors are: 1. Air Transport between Taiwan and Penghu, 2. Ecological Landscapes, 3. Hotels, 4. Sea Transport between Taiwan and Penghu, and 5. Inter-island Transportation. This study concludes with the research findings and related recommendations, aiming to provide a reference for the future development of tourism in Penghu.