Occupying the north-east corner of Kinmen Island, Jinsha Township is a largely residential district overlooking Weitou Bay. Administered by Taiwan, it lies a stone’s throw from mainland China, although the rocky waters make it difficult to travel between the two. Jinsha Township is littered with architectural landmarks and lies on the edge of the Tai Wu Shan Scenic Area.
Things to do in Jinsha Township
One of Jinsha Township’s most important religious landmarks is the Guan’ao Longfeng Temple, which was founded in 1611 and is dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. It is ornately decorated with colourful paintings and wooden sculptures and features a stage where theatrical plays are held. Combine your visit to the temple with a stop at the Mashan Observation Post, which offers views all the way to Xiamen.
Traditional Fujian buildings cluster in the Kinmen Folk Culture Village, which was established in 1876 by Wang Kuo-chen. In addition to its courtyard houses and ancestral shrine, it exhibits antique furnishings and objects that are characteristic of the island. Wander through the narrow alleyways and admire the school academy of Hai Jhu Tang while enjoying the views of Weitou Bay.
Combining Western and Hokkien architectural elements is the Beishan Old Western-style House, which was completed in 1932 for the Wang family. It has been seized by both the Imperial Japanese Army and the Republic of China Army in the years since and is now heritage listed. Of particular note are the sculptural reliefs and totems that decorate the facade.
Getting around Jinsha Township
Kinmen Airport is around 15 minutes’ drive from Jinsha Township and has flights to destinations across Taiwan. Buses travel around the island and connect to Jinsha Township, although renting a car or scooter will give you greater freedom to explore the area.