Qinbi Village
Matsu
Qinbi is by far Beigan's most complete traditional village, with its array of interconnected stone homes built on a steep slope, facing the curved bay and…
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Matsu
The Matsu (馬祖; Mǎzǔ) group of islands is an overnight boat ride from Taiwan, yet visible from the coast of mainland China. Like similarly located Kinmen, it spent most of the last 70 years as a military outpost. Many of the sights here are defensive tunnels and forts with superb ocean views. A few of these 'strongholds' are being converted into hostels and cafes. Meanwhile a scattering of older traditional houses have survived and a couple of pretty coastal villages present scenes more reminiscent of the Adriatic or southern France.
Attractions
Must-see attractions for your itinerary
Beihai Tunnel
Matsu
This 700m of sea tunnel took three laborious years to carve out with many soldiers losing their lives in the process. Completed in 1971, it was used as a…
Peace Memorial Park
Matsu
Until the start of this century, Beigan's steep eastern peninsula housed a slew of defensive military emplacements. Many have been preserved as part of…
Giant Matsu Statue
Matsu
At a towering 28.8m, this serene 2009 statue is said to be the world's tallest image of the sea goddess Matsu (Mazu). As well as facilitating many a 'See…
Matsu Temple
Matsu
This colourful temple is considered one of the most sacred spots in Taiwan, featuring as it does the purported grave of Lin Mo-niang (林默娘; b 960) who…
Qiaozi Village
Matsu
Though lacking Qinbi's architectural integrity, Qiaozi (Ciaozai) gains a great deal of charm from its setting, nestled around a rocky harbour with…
Daqiu Island
Matsu
Barely five minutes by boat from Qiaozi harbour, a two-hour visit to this windswept, uninhabited island is one of Matsu's great joys – but only when the…
Jinsha Village
Matsu
Jinsha is Nangan's most attractive old village. Its central core is a series of tile-roofed stone buildings – many now B&Bs – forming a tight-knit unit…
Guidebooks
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