Chongqing Gate Introduction
Climbing the steps to reminisce about past emotions, Zhongcheng Gate was once the gateway to Dongyin Island before the completion of Zhongzhugang. It was a crucial passage for the soldiers and civilians of Dongyin in the past, allowing them to enter and exit as well as transport their fish catches. Today, it has lost its original function. Zhongcheng Gate is an ancient-style semi-circular wall structure located at the entrance of the coastal area of Nanao, Dongyin Island. On both sides of the gate, there are big red and white characters reading "Uphold the Law and Be Practical, Diligent and Frugal." Atop the wall stands a statue of a soldier holding a gun, embodying a brave posture of one man guarding the gate against thousands, reflecting the historical atmosphere of Dongyin's past as a war zone. Passing through the gate and climbing the steps leads to the bustling "Zhonglu" of the island, which is the urban area built against the mountain — Zhongliu Village and Lehua Village. This area retains many traditional Eastern Fujian houses made of granite, characterized by their simplicity and sturdiness, exuding the charm of "the battlefield Jiufen." Climbing up to the gate, the area next to the statue offers a great vantage point overlooking Zhongzhugang. Also located to the left and behind Zhongcheng Gate is the Tianhou Temple of Dongyin, said to have been built during the Jiaqing period of the Qing Dynasty, serving as an important religious center for the local residents. The soldier of Dongyin who never retires, the statue of the soldier on Zhongcheng Gate was constructed around 1974 and has stood guard for over 40 years. It is still on duty today. Inspired by a military enlistment advertisement, it is named "A-Rong," symbolizing the collective spirit of the soldiers and civilians of Dongyin and is a must-visit spot for many veterans returning to their old stomping grounds.
