The island Kinmen is situated 280 kilometers of the Taiwan Strait and 2 kilometers off the coast of Fuijan province, the same latitude as Taichung. Average temperature of 21C and the island is affected by subtropical monsoons with strong northeasterly winds September to April. The island is mainly made up by granite with its highest point of 253 meters, Mountain Taiwu. Kinmen National Park was established in 1995 to preserve the history and culture with an area of 3780 hectares.

Because of its military importance, development of the island is limited and is now a popular destination as a weekend retreat with nice beaches and good fishing opportunities. The famous artillery shell knife, made by skilled local craftsmen, is wanted by chefs and connoisseurs. The well-known local liquor Kaoliang is highly appreciated by the Taiwanese.

Mashan Observation Station is the point were Kinmen is closest to mainland China with only 2100 meters separation, or at low tide just 1800 meters! Through one of the high-powered binoculars one can observe the daily life of the village on the opposite coast.

Kinmen has six villages with well preserved Fuijan architecture "swallowtail" style roofs for gentry and "saddleback" style for commenors.

The best way to come to Kinmen is by air with domestic flights several times per day from Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung, Chiayi and Tainan.

Photographer: Harry Huang
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