Maguo Jin Gui Tou Lighthouse Introduction
The Jin Gui Tou Fortress is located at the extreme west of Magong Peninsula on the western side of Penghu Island, immediately outside the southwest gate of Magong City and atop Turtle Head Mountain in the southwest of Magong Bay. It stands opposite to Snake Head Mountain at Fengguiwei, which is the old name for Dasyan Island, thus controlling the entrance to Magong Harbor. Built in 1887 by General Wu Hongluo, it was equipped with one 7-inch, one 10-inch, and one 12-inch Armstrong rifled gun, making it one of the most powerful fortifications in all of Penghu, alongside the East and West Tai on Xiyu. This fortress was one of nine built by Liu Mingchuan; it was constructed simultaneously with the West and East Tais on Xiyu and was the most significant among the four fortifications of the time, thus holding immense historical value. The vaulted barracks are the major architectural form of Jin Gui Tou Fortress, characteristic of the fortifications in the Penghu area. Today, the surrounding earth ramparts, artillery emplacements, fortress base, and the gateway pavilion are all well-preserved, with the ramparts constructed from Penghu's most famous basalt and bound together with cement. The gunpowder smoke of past battles has long since dissipated over time. The Jin Gui Tou Fortress, rich with the marks of years, has been restored and is now open for visitors since April 26, 2017, offering both ancient stories and a new appearance. Nearby historic sites such as the Pan An Bang Residence, Tianhou Temple, Shuncheng Gate, and Duxing Ten Villages are also worth a visit, making it a must-see for those who appreciate cultural heritage. The Jin Gui Tou Fortress, resembling a small peninsula, exudes a touch of antiquity, and in the evening, bathed in the soft light of the setting sun, it presents a delightful scene perfect for enjoying the beauty of dusk. (Image source: Penghu County Government Cultural Affairs Bureau)