Matsu Islands
A chain of islands where military history meets island serenity off the Fujian coast.
matsu islands at a Glance
Everything you need to know before you go.
Discover the Matsu Islands, a string of pearls off the coast of Fujian, steeped in military history and unique multicultural influences. This 4-day route takes you across Nangan, Beigan, Dongyin, and Juguang, where you'll explore wartime tunnels, traditional fishing villages, dramatic coastal landscapes, and sacred Mazu temples. Ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and photographers, the itinerary balances guided exploration with free time to soak in the island charm. Ferry connections and walking-friendly sites make this an accessible and enriching escape from the mainland.
Where to Stay
Choose the neighborhood that fits your style.
Nangan Island
Main gateway with the Matsu Folklore Culture Museum, Iron Fort, Beihai Tunnel, and Jinsha Village; well-connected by ferries to other islands.
Best for first-time visitors and historyBeigan Island
Home to the War and Peace Memorial Park, Bishan Viewpoint, and the granite houses of Qibian Village; accessible by a short ferry from Nangan.
Best for village charm and panoramic viewsmatsu islands Highlights
The city's essential experiences, grouped by what you love most.
Learn about Matsu's history, geology, and customs; closed on Mondays.
Former coastal defense bunker built into a rocky outcrop; great photo spot.
Eerie hand-dug waterway; walk the tunnel or take a small boat (boat ride extra).
Well-preserved stone house village with sea views; enjoy a coffee at a local café.
Outdoor museum with planes, tanks, and exhibitions on Matsu's wartime history.
Highest point on Beigan; panoramic views of the island and sea on clear days.
Famous for its granite houses and cinematic alleys; lunch at a local restaurant.
Purchase tickets in advance; first ferry departs early.
Check the afternoon schedule; last ferry usually around 17:00.
Long crossing; bring motion sickness remedies if needed.
Best Time to Visit
Each season offers a different side of the city.
Spring · Mar–May
Mild weather and blooming landscapes — comfortable for exploring.
Summer · Jun–Aug
Warm days; highland areas stay cool while lowland cities get hot and humid.
Autumn · Sep–Nov
The best season in most of China — crisp air, clear skies, and golden light.
Winter · Dec–Feb
Cold in the north, mild in the south. Fewer crowds and lower prices outside holidays.
Suggested Itineraries
Three carefully-paced plans for your trip.
1-Day Express
Focus on essential sights. Begin at the Matsu Folklore Culture Museum to learn about Matsu's history, geology, and customs (note: closed on Mondays). Visit the Iron Fort (Tiebao), a former coastal defense bunker built into a rocky outcrop, great for photo spots. Then explore the Beihai Tunnel, an eerie hand-dug waterway; walk the tunnel or take a small boat (boat ride extra). End at Jinsha Village, a well-preserved stone house village with sea views, where you can enjoy a coffee at a local café.
2-Day Classic
Day 1: Follow the 1-Day Express highlights, including the Matsu Folklore Culture Museum, Iron Fort, Beihai Tunnel, and Jinsha Village. Day 2: Take an early ferry from Nangan to Beigan (Baisha Port; purchase tickets in advance). Visit the War and Peace Memorial Park, an outdoor museum with planes, tanks, and exhibitions on Matsu's wartime history. Then go to Bishan Viewpoint, the highest point on Beigan, for panoramic views of the island and sea on clear days. Continue to Qibian Village, famous for its granite houses and cinematic alleys, and have lunch at a local restaurant. Return to Nangan on an afternoon ferry (check schedule; last ferry usually around 17:00).
Local Tips
Insider knowledge for a smoother trip.
Ferries between islands can fill up, especially in peak season (May-Oct). Purchase tickets ahead and check schedules for first departures and last returns.
Matsu Folklore Culture Museum is closed on Mondays. Plan your visit on other days to avoid disappointment.
The Nangan-Dongyin ferry is a long crossing. Bring motion sickness remedies if needed. Return ferry from Beigan to Nangan usually departs by around 17:00, so check the afternoon schedule.
Many sites are walking-friendly but involve uneven paths. Bring sturdy footwear for tunnels, viewpoints, and village walks.
Beihai Tunnel offers a small boat ride at an extra cost. You can walk the tunnel or choose the boat option.
FAQs About matsu islands
Quick answers to common questions.
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