Dongyin Lighthouse Introduction
The White Pearl of the North, Dongyong Lighthouse (also known as Dongyin Lighthouse), is located on the hillside of Shihwei Mountain— at the extreme eastern point of the Matsu Archipelago. It is also known as the Beigang Lighthouse. The pure white brick tower stands 13 meters tall and exudes an 18th-century European architectural style, rising above the rugged cliffs. The construction of Dongyong Lighthouse originated in the 27th year of the Guangxu Emperor (around 1901), when the 450-foot ship "Soo Boo" sank near Dongyong after running aground. Although the passengers and cargo were unharmed, the shipping company suffered significant losses. The increase in import and export trade after the opening of Sandu Bay ultimately led to the construction of the Dongyong Lighthouse. In 1988, it was designated as a national third-level historic site by the Council for Cultural Affairs and was upgraded to a national historic site in 2016, making it the northernmost historic site in the Taiwan-Matsu region. Initially, the lighthouse was located in a restricted area, and the lightkeeper, along with their family, had to live in the lighthouse. To supply food for the staff, chicken coops and pigpens were established. During the times of material shortages, people outside the tower envied the lightkeepers inside, referring to this place as "Dongyin Villa." At the edge of the cliff below the lighthouse, there were two fog guns, which have now been replaced by a foghorn for navigation assistance. The lighthouse faces the East China Sea, with its white exterior standing majestically against the blue sea below, creating a mesmerizing view. Visitors can follow the low white concrete railing as it winds upwards to find the lighthouse. Note: To reach Dongyong Lighthouse, vehicles must be parked at the end of the road, and visitors must walk along the path from the mountain, passing through Leigushih and Taibaitiansheng, to reach the entrance of the lighthouse.
