Shuitou Village Introduction
Shuitou, also known as Jinshui, is located in the southwest corner of Jincheng Township. It is a multi-surname settlement primarily populated by the Huang family, and due to its proximity to the Shuitou Wharf, it has historically been a transportation hub between Kinmen and Xiamen. Shuitou was once a prosperous settlement, known for its well-preserved Min-style architecture and Western-style buildings, which are the most abundant and exquisite on the island. Notable structures include Deyue Tower, Jinshui Elementary School, and the Overseas Community Culture Display Hall, each with unique characteristics representative of Kinmen. A local saying goes, "Those with Shuitou are rich, those without Shuitou do not have fine houses," indicating that while one may be as wealthy as the villagers of Shuitou, acquiring a residence as magnificent as those in Shuitou is not easy, highlighting the praise Kinmen residents have for the architecture of Shuitou. In the past, the villagers of Shuitou not only relied on agriculture and fishing for their livelihood but also engaged in shipping and trade, resulting in a blend of traditional Minnan ancient houses and exotic Western-style buildings influenced by overseas styles. Traditional Minnan structures include the Huang Clan Ancestral Hall built during the Qianlong era, Huang Ji's ancient house, and the "Eighteen Beams" in Dingjie (nine houses with two courtyards). After the mid-Qing dynasty, many Kinmen overseas Chinese sent remittances back home to fund the construction of noteworthy schools (Jinshui School), watchtowers (Deyue Tower), and other architecturally refined Western-style buildings. Shuitou seems like an exhibition of historical architecture and is the best-preserved traditional large settlement in Kinmen. More about Jinshui Elementary School >> More about Deyue Tower >> More about the Overseas Community Culture Display Hall >>
