Located just 2 km from China's coast in Fujian Province, Kinmen—also known as Jinmen or Quemoy—is a Taiwanese archipelago comprising over 15 small fishing islands. The island sits very close to the city of Xiamen in southeastern China.

Since the opening of the Kinmen border, hundreds of boats have brought curious visitors eager to discover the archipelago's military history and natural beauty. Last year alone, the island welcomed over 220,000 tourists—double its population.

History

Since 1949, Kinmen Island lived under constant threat of Chinese military invasion. During the 1970s, Kinmen endured daily bombardment from its communist neighbor. The island thus reflects half a century of rivalry between China and Taiwan.

Long off-limits due to conflict, the fortress island has recently opened to tourism. Visa requirements have been waived for stays under 48 hours, making it easy to spend a weekend there. Today, the island's military personnel who once monitored boats arriving from China have become more discrete and are gradually being replaced by tourists.

Exploring Kinmen Island

Spanning 153 km², Jinmen—meaning "golden gate"—is home to four municipalities represented by quiet villages: Jincheng, nicknamed the golden city; Jinsha, "golden sand"; Jinhu, also known as golden lake; and Jinning, meaning "golden tranquility."

Jinmen reveals itself through charming historic dwellings and colorful alleyways. Despite the civil war that lasted over 50 years, the golden island has preserved its architectural heritage and timeless appeal.

During the 1970s, when the island faced daily attacks and bombardment from China, it was considered a defensive stronghold. Military installations were established and have since become tourist attractions. Kinmen still features barbed wire barriers, barricades, shells and massive tunnels. While exploring the island, you'll discover exhibition parks showcasing military equipment—fighter jets, tanks and old watchtowers—now part of the Guning War History Museum.

Today, recovered war materials are worked and transformed into kitchen utensils and everyday tools. Crafted by renowned blacksmiths like Wu Tsong-Tchan, you can witness recycling sessions firsthand in the workshops and watch the last witnesses to war disappear.

For those wishing to learn more about Kinmen's military history, a visit to the Zhaishan marine tunnels is highly recommended. Carved from granite rocks in the 1960s, these 357-meter-long tunnels once housed Taiwan's continental artillery naval vessels during wartime. The coolness of these underground passages offers welcome relief from the hot, humid exterior temperatures.

Beyond military sites fiercely guarded by statues of high-ranking Kinmen military officials like President Chiang Chin-kou, the archipelago offers other activities as well. You can rent bicycles to explore the island and stop near the beach for a pleasant walk in the fine sand. Further ahead, forests provide greenery and shade while offering sea views.

The Shuangli birdwatching site is perfect for travelers seeking to add nature to their journey. You can observe countless migratory birds through the wetlands.

You can rent a taxi from Shuitou port to Jincheng city center for 40 to 50 RMB.

You can also rent a scooter, which is very practical for exploring the island at your own pace. Bike and scooter rentals are common at Kinmen, available at Shang Yi Airport and in many towns.

To reach tourist attractions, you can take the bus service available in all villages.

Hours and Admission

To visit the Kinmen Cultural Village, advance 10 RMB per person.