Kinmen

Kinmen County's Major Tourist Attractions

Juguang Tower

Juguang Tower is a renowned landmark in Kinmen, offering panoramic views from its observation deck. This elegant structure is not only a testament to Kinmen's war history but also a symbol of peace and hope. Visitors can explore the tower's exhibition, which provides insights into the island's past conflicts with mainland China.

Juguang Tower in Kinmen

Zhaishan Tunnel

Delve into Kinmen's military history at Zhaishan Tunnel, an impressive underground structure once used by the navy. Today, it stands as a testament to the island's strategic importance and offers a unique glimpse into the past. The tunnel's cool interior and echoing corridors make it a fascinating stop for those interested in military sites.

Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor Inc.

Discover the famous Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor at its namesake distillery. Visitors can learn about the production process of this strong spirit, sample the liquor, and purchase bottles as souvenirs. The distillery's history is intertwined with Kinmen's culture, making it an essential experience for those who visit Kinmen.

Guningtou Battle Museum

The Guningtou Battle Museum is dedicated to the historic conflict where nationalist forces (ROC) successfully repelled the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in 1949, frustrating the Communist attempt to seize Kinmen and use it as a springboard. Through a collection of artifacts and displays, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the island's war history. The museum also hosts the Kinmen County Sculpture Festival, showcasing artistic interpretations of peace and history.

Shanhou Folk Culture Village

Step back in time at Shanhou Folk Culture Village, where a series of well-preserved western style houses offer a glimpse into the lives of overseas Chinese. The village's architecture and exhibitions reflect the unique blend of Eastern and Western influences on Kinmen Island.

Wind Lion God Statues

Scattered across Kinmen are the iconic Wind Lion God statues, believed to protect the island from fierce winds and evil spirits. These cultural relics are not only interesting sights but also a window into the local folklore and beliefs. Each statue has its own distinct style, reflecting the diverse artistic heritage of Kinmen.

Kinmen Military Brothel Exhibition Hall

The Kinmen Military Brothel Exhibition Hall is a sobering heritage building that reveals a lesser-known aspect of military life on the island. The exhibition provides a poignant look at the lives of women who were part of this controversial institution, offering a different perspective on Kinmen's war history.

Kinmen Tunnel Music Festival

Celebrate Kinmen's unique blend of culture and history at the Kinmen Tunnel Music Festival. Held within the island's historic tunnels, this event combines the island's military past with its artistic present, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Maestro Wu's Steel Knives

Witness the craftsmanship of Kinmen steel knives at Maestro Wu's workshop. These renowned blades are forged from artillery shells, a symbol of turning tools of war into instruments of peace. Visitors can watch the smiths at work and purchase a Kinmen knife as a distinctive souvenir.

Overseas Chinese Culture Museum

Explore the rich heritage of Kinmen at the Overseas Chinese Culture Museum. The museum showcases the lives and contributions of overseas Chinese, highlighting their influence on the island's development. Exhibits include personal stories, artifacts, and photographs, connecting visitors with the diaspora's legacy.

Kinmen National Park

Kinmen National Park offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Tourists can explore military sites, observe local wildlife, and enjoy the serene landscapes. The park is also home to the Kinmen County Sculpture Festival, where art and nature merge.

Beishan Old Western Style Houses

The Beishan Old Western Style Houses are a cluster of heritage buildings that reflect the wealth and status of overseas Chinese who returned to Kinmen. These western style houses are now cultural landmarks, offering a peek into the island's architectural evolution.

Jinshui Elementary School War Museum

Jinshui Elementary School has been transformed into a war museum, where visitors can learn about Kinmen's role in cross-strait relations. The museum's exhibits cover various aspects of the island's military history, from past conflicts to present-day peace efforts.

Wentai Pagoda

The Wentai Pagoda is an ancient beacon of Kinmen Island, guiding sailors and fishermen for centuries. This historical monument is not only an interesting sight but also a cultural relic, representing the maritime heritage of Kinmen and its connection to the sea.

Kinmen's Enduring Legacy & History

Kinmen island's strategic importance dates back to the Qing Dynasty, but its global fame comes from the mid-20th century. After 1949, the Kinmen Islands became the primary line of defense for the Republic of China (Taiwanese government). This period saw the construction of extensive underground military installations, tunnels, and fortifications, all aimed at resisting the Chinese Communists. The continuous tension, including the 1958 artillery barrage, led to the island being heavily garrisoned, which, resulted in the preservation of its traditional architecture due to restricted development.

Culturally, Kinmen is an extension of Southern Fujian (Min-nan) heritage. This manifests in the beautiful swallowtail roofs and intricate carvings seen in its old settlements. However, its most famous product tells a unique military story: high quality knives are crafted by local artisans like Maestro Wu from the shell casings of the tens of thousands of communist artillery shells fired onto the island. This transformation of tools of war into practical implements is a powerful local symbol. The charming Wind Lion Gods scattered throughout the four townships are also unique cultural guardians, installed to ward off strong winds and evil spirits. Don't forget to take the short ferry ride to Little Kinmen (Lieyu), one of the key outlying islands that shares this profound military history.

Kinmen Travel Guide: How To Get There

Kinmen is most easily reached by air. Flights from Taipei (Songshan Airport) are frequent, as are those from other cities across mainland Taiwan (Kaohsiung, Taichung, Tainan). The flight takes about an hour. Historically, the ferry link to Xiamen on the Chinese Mainland was a major route, and while availability can vary, the cultural connection remains strong.

The Kinmen Islands are best explored independently. While public transport exists, renting a scooter or car offers maximum flexibility. The island is divided into four main areas:

• Jincheng Township: The historical capital and county seat, best for finding accommodation and local food.
• Jinning Township: Home to Guningtou and Beishan (military history).
• Jinhu Township: Home to Zhaishan Tunnel and the Kinmen Kaoliang Distillery.
• Jinsha Township: Home to Shanhou Village and Mashan Observation Post.

Tip: If you plan to visit during the Lunar Chinese New Year period, be aware that many local shops, restaurants, and attractions close for several days. It is best to avoid this period if you want to experience the local scene.

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