Qiaozai Settlement Introduction
Qiaozai Fishing Village, located in the northwest of Beigan, is a small village nestled in a valley sloping northward beneath Bieshan Mountain. The valley, shaped by rainwater, features a network of ravines, and small bridges can be seen throughout the village. The term "Qiaozai" derives from the Matsu dialect, where "zai" means "small". Historically, the Qiaozai settlement prospered from fishing and salt trading, serving as a transshipment port for business with the mainland. During peak times, the population exceeded a thousand, making it the largest village in Beigan. The traditional Fujian eastern architectural style is preserved in Qiaozai's houses, and it is known as the village with the most temples in all of Matsu, hence the nickname "Temple Village". However, after a large exodus of residents, its former glory has faded, leading to the interesting phenomenon of having "gods outnumber people". Visitors can appreciate the beautiful characteristics of traditional Matsu temples, such as red walls and green tiles, along with the striking "fire mountain wall" resembling flames. The village also features a unique sight of the "three temples in one". Fishing boats offer a chance to seek deer. A simple wharf is located on the left side of Qiaozai Bay, used to transport goods to the frontline islands of Gaodeng and Liang during its operational period. Nowadays, fixed boat services are available during the tourist season to take visitors to Daqiu Island in just five minutes to explore and seek deer. Fishing Industry Exhibition Hall: A glimpse into the glory of Qiaozai fishing. Although Qiaozai Village has declined, the Fishing Industry Exhibition Hall allows visitors to explore its past prosperity. The hall showcases traditional fishing methods, fishing boats, and fishing gear, as well as the production processes for shrimp paste, most of which were collaboratively made by villagers. Historically, salt was essential for preserving catch, and during the 8th year of the Tongzhi Emperor's reign in the Qing Dynasty, large "salt monuments" were erected at Tangqi and Qiaozai to prevent the salt guild from harming fishermen. One of these monuments is currently preserved in the Fishing Industry Exhibition Hall. Address: No. 109-1, Qiaozai Village, Beigan Township, Lienchiang County Opening Hours: 08:30-17:00 Chilled Golden Dumplings: A Matsu-exclusive dessert. Golden dumplings are sweet potato dumplings commonly eaten by the people of Matsu. Small yet rich in texture, they are served with green bean soup and ice in the summer, providing a chewy and refreshing treat. In winter, they are paired with hot red bean soup, warming the hearts of visitors. Whether cold or hot, they offer a delightful culinary experience!
