Snake Mountain Introduction
Searching for the Mythical Bird on She Mountain She Mountain is not a mountain; it is composed of four reefs located off the west coast of Xi Ju Island, laid out in a winding line, resembling a long snake coiled in the sea. Another account suggests that the sea eroded terrain in front of the main peak of She Mountain resembles a snake's tongue due to the ebb and flow of the tides, hence the name. With She Mountain being very close to the main island of Xi Ju and connected by a gravel beach to the Kunqiao settlement, during low tide, the snake's head remains above the sea surface, allowing residents of the island to collect shellfish when the tide recedes. However, due to the discovery of precious seabirds inhabiting and breeding on the reefs, it has now been designated as a tern protection area. She Mountain is the only island located within the Matsu tern protection area in Ju Guang Township, where surveys have shown the presence of Black-naped Terns, White-browed Terns, Common Terns, and the mythical bird—the Black-tailed Godwit. Therefore, every summer, there is a chance to see terns flying together and bathing on the beach at the birdwatching pavilion, making it an excellent birdwatching spot known among bird enthusiasts. Note: From April to October each year is the breeding season for terns, and visitors are prohibited from climbing She Mountain. Tourists are reminded to avoid making noise to prevent disturbing the delicate terns and to pay attention to tidal changes for safety. Kunqiao Beach The Most Beautiful Beach in Matsu Kunqiao Beach is located at the western end of Xi Ju Island, known for its stunning sunsets, making it one of Matsu's highlights, worthy of a visit to witness the beautiful evening glow at this corner of the world. As the tide recedes, the sandy pathway from Kunqiao Beach to She Mountain is exposed, and the intertidal zone is rich in ecological resources, serving as a "natural refrigerator" for the people of Xi Ju. In addition to the beautiful beach scenery, Kunqiao also features a "Kunqiao Path," a wooden boardwalk built along the hillside, winding through the bushes of Xilu Mountain. Along the way, visitors can enjoy various native plants of Matsu, and the pavilions along the path offer broad views, making them great spots for sightseeing. Here, the distant view of She Mountain presents a different charm.
