Fushan Zhaobi - Waiting for Dawn Introduction
As the Taiwan-Matsu ferry arrives at Fuao Harbor in Matsu, four red big letters—"Ready for Battle"—immediately catch the eye, prominently standing on Fuqing Ridge in Nangan. It is currently one of the most renowned iconic landmarks for entry and exit to Matsu, sharing fame with the "Never Forget the Struggles" inscription on Mount Taiwu in Kinmen. Beneath "Ready for Battle" is the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park, where white steps resemble a white dragon winding around a massive rock, making it very striking. This Fushan Reflection Wall is located at the "Ready for Battle Memorial Park" on the hillside southwest of Fuao Village. It is a rectangular building with two underground floors and five above-ground floors. The four characters "Ready for Battle" were personally written by former President Chiang Kai-shek during an inspection of defense in Matsu in July 1958, encouraging the military and civilians of Matsu to not forget the aspiration for national rejuvenation. The original handwritten inscription was enlarged to create the current installation. However, it is said that a considerable effort was required to mount the four large characters on the towering archway, as the characters had to be projected from the bottom of the hill at night before work could begin. The Ready for Battle Memorial Park was originally a museum displaying snippets of military and civilian life in the Matsu region, but after being idle for a while, it was planned by local artist Tsao Kai-chih to become a space for cultural and artistic performances. The park features an observation platform for visitors to overlook and enjoy the panoramic view of Fuao Harbor, which has a unique charm with its sea and sky merging into one.
