Shuitou Settlement Introduction
Shuitou, also known as Jinsui, is located in the southwest corner of Jincheng Township and is a multi-surname settlement primarily associated with the Huang family. Neighboring Shuitou Harbor, it has historically been a key transportation point between Kinmen and Xiamen. In the past, Shuitou was quite a wealthy community, preserving the most and finest Minnan-style architecture and Western-style buildings on the island. Notable structures include Deyuelou, Jinsui Elementary School, and the Overseas Chinese Cultural Exhibition Hall, each with its unique character reflecting Kinmen's heritage. A local saying in Kinmen, "Where there is Shuitou, there is wealth; without Shuitou, there's no fine house," means that while one can be as wealthy as the villagers of Shuitou, possessing a grand residence like theirs is not easily achievable, highlighting the esteem Kinmen people place on the architectural beauty of the Shuitou settlement. The residents of Shuitou historically survived through agriculture and fishing, but many also engaged in shipping and trade, resulting in a mix of traditional Minnan houses and exotic Western-style buildings influenced by overseas styles. Traditional Minnan structures include the Huang Family Ancestral Hall built during the Qianlong era, Huang Jigu's residence, and the "Eighteen Beams" at Dingjie (a large compound of nine houses). After the mid-Qing dynasty, a significant number of Kinmen overseas Chinese sent remittances back home to build schools (Jinsui School), watchtowers (Deyuelou), and other architecturally elaborate Western-style buildings. Shuitou resembles an exhibition of historical architecture and is also Kinmen's most well-preserved traditional large settlement. More about Jinsui Elementary School >> More about Deyuelou >> More about the Overseas Chinese Cultural Exhibition Hall >>
